Andrew "Drew" Walen
Bass Guitar Teacher, Guitar Teacher, Vocal Teacher, Owner, General Manager
Andrew Walen, a magna cum laude graduate from Berklee College of Music ('95), seamlessly blends his extensive music industry experience with his passion for education at the School of Rock in Pikesville, Maryland. His journey began with internships at top management companies for Aerosmith and Pat Metheny, taking him from Boston to Nashville where he thrived as a singer/songwriter and guitarist. Known for his performances in the iconic Lower Broadway clubs, Andrew released several CDs and had his songs recorded by artists across various genres, including children's music, R&B, rock, and country. Andrew later shifted his talents to music journalism, writing for both local and national publications. His most challenging and rewarding role, however, came as a stay-at-home father to his son George, who required special medical care. Seeking stability for his family, Andrew earned a degree in social work from the University of Tennessee and built a successful 20-year career as a psychotherapist and mental health executive in Nashville and Baltimore. In 2021, Andrew retired from corporate work to support George through the emotional and physical challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. Once the crisis passed, Andrew felt drawn back to his first love: music. He opened the School of Rock in Pikesville, where he combines his deep industry knowledge and therapeutic skills to inspire and mentor the next generation of musicians. Andrew continues to write, record, and perform in the Baltimore and DC areas, nurturing his enduring love for music while fostering a vibrant community of young rockers.
Demi Brown
Assistant General Manager
Demi Brown brings enthusiasm, organization, and a deep love for music to her role as studio coordinator at School of Rock Pikesville. With a background in music as a singer and rapper, as well as in customer service, mentoring, and creative environments, Demi is passionate about creating a welcoming and supportive space for students and families.
Demi's leadership skills first emerged as a senior ambassador in high school, where she guided incoming students through mentorship and encouragement. Professionally, Demi honed her ability to stay organized and adapt quickly in fast-paced customer-facing roles, always maintaining high energy and a positive attitude. Her experience working with young people, from mentoring peers to babysitting, has further developed her patience and ability to connect with children and teens in meaningful ways.
Demi is drawn to the mission and culture of School of Rock. Celebrating individuality, community, and the power of music to inspire growth and confidence. At School of Rock Pikesville, she ensures every student and family has a smooth, engaging, and uplifting experience from the moment they walk through the doors.
David Favazza
Bass Guitar Teacher, Drum Teacher, Guitar Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher, Vocal Teacher, Music Director
David is a seasoned musician and producer based in Baltimore, with 23 years of experience spanning local stages, national tours, and international performances. His passion for music has driven his career, where he dedicates himself to inspiring others to create and perform.
David’s journey began as a drum instructor at the School of Rock in Towson, where he helped students develop their musical skills and discover their creative potential. He served for three years as the school's music director. David now leads our program at the School of Rock in Pikesville, Maryland, applying our innovative curriculum, coordinating live performances, and mentoring both students and instructors. His leadership fosters a collaborative and supportive environment, helping musicians of all ages build confidence, teamwork, and a deep appreciation for music.
In addition to his work at School of Rock, David serves as a music producer at SongBuilder Studios in Catonsville. There, he collaborates with artists to produce and mix tracks across all genres, helping clients elevate their songs to professional levels that resonate with audiences worldwide. His expertise spans songwriting, recording, and delivering polished productions that bring each artist’s unique voice to life. David lives in Baltimore City with his fiancé, and can often be found skateboarding around town or sampling some of the great restaurant and bar spots that make our city so vibrant!
Aidyn Mingo
Vocal Teacher, Little Wing Teacher, Rookies Teacher, Rock 101 Teacher, Assistant Show Director
Aidyn brings both energy and empathy to their role as a vocal teacher at School of Rock Pikesville. A longtime School of Rock student and House Band member at multiple locations across Wisconsin, Florida, and Maryland, Aidyn developed their skills not only as a vocalist but also as a natural leader. They frequently stepped up to guide rehearsals, support younger students, and share their passion for music with the wider community.
With a background that blends performance experience and hospitality, Aidyn is known for their excellent communication skills, adaptability, and ability to create a welcoming environment for every student. Whether they’re teaching proper vocal technique, encouraging creative expression, or helping students build confidence on stage, Aidyn’s focus is always on supporting growth and making music fun.
When not teaching at School of Rock Pikesville, Aidyn continues to train as a vocalist and perform, bringing fresh perspective and first-hand knowledge of what it means to be both a student and a performer. They are excited to help the next generation of rockers at School of Rock Pikesville find their voice.
Alex Petropulos
Drum Teacher
Meet Alexander "Gator" Petropulos, the resident drum guru here at School of Rock Pikesville! Alex has had drumsticks in hand since he took his very first lessons at just five years old, building an incredible career over the last 20-plus years as a dedicated drummer who loves all kinds of music. When he's not in the classroom, there's a good chance he's out on the road.
As a full-time studio and touring drummer, Alex has played over 1,000 shows across almost all 50 states, hitting the stage more than 100 times a year. Since 2015, he's been the driving beat for the funk-rock band Pigeons Playing Ping Pong , and he's also an original member of the jazz-fusion group The Infinity Tribe. He has even performed at iconic spots like Madison Square Garden, Red Rocks Amphitheater, and the Bonnaroo Music Festival , sharing the stage with amazing artists like Cory Wong and Billy Strings. Even with all that real-world experience, Alex is always looking to grow as a musician, finding huge inspiration in collaborating with others. Drawing from his own top-tier education, including private lessons with world-renowned instructors like Dave DiCenso and Jeff Sipe, he brings over six years of teaching experience right to his students.
Whether he's teaching one-on-one or giving a live clinic like he did at the 2019 Domefest Music Festival, Alex loves helping drummers find their unique voice. His teaching style puts a major focus on developing a great feel, tapping into creativity, and using dynamics to actually tell a story with the instrument. He's also a fantastic resource for any student dreaming of going pro, offering great advice on what it really takes to tour and make a living behind the kit.
Influenced by heavy hitters like Tony Williams, Vinnie Colaiuta, Neal Peart, and John Bonham, Alex definitely knows how to lay it down. Whether he's locking into a deep, heavy groove or flying through fast-paced, high-energy rhythms, he's always ready to push musical boundaries and create something truly special with the people he plays with. When not teaching you can find Alex playing at the park with his dog Ralph.
Ell Gottlieb
Vocal Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher, Drum Teacher
Ell Gottlieb is a trained vocalist and dedicated vocal, bass, and drum instructor with a deep passion for performance and mentoring young musicians. They bring a lifelong connection to the School of Rock community, having spent a decade (2014–2024) as a vocalist, bassist, and House Band Member at the Baltimore location.
Having studied Music Education at Berklee College of Music, Ell’s coursework focused on music theory, harmony, and ensemble performance. Before joining the School of Rock Pikesville team, Ell gained extensive teaching experience at the Burlington location. There, they provided individual instruction in vocals, bass, and drums, taught the Rookies, Little Wing, and Rock 101 programs, and assisted with Performance Program and Adult Band rehearsals.
Specializing in vocal technique, harmony, and ear training, Ell excels at working with children and teens. In their lessons and rehearsals, they focus heavily on building collaboration, fostering positive group dynamics, and helping students develop exceptional confidence and stage presence. When not performing or teaching you can find Ell making kandi (beaded jewelry).
Henry "Hank" Upton
Bass Guitar Teacher, Guitar Teacher
Hank brings over two decades of real-world music experience to School of Rock Pikesville, specializing in bass guitar, vocals, and songwriting. A founding member of the internationally touring rock band Lionize, Hank performed across more than 20 countries and contributed as a co-writer, co-producer, and creative director on 10 full-length albums. His passion for performance and music education is matched by his approachable teaching style, honed through years of private instruction and work with students of all levels at Middle C Music and Guitar Center.
Hank's focus is on helping students build solid technical skills while encouraging creativity and confidence on stage. Whether someone is picking up the bass for the first time or looking to refine their chops, Hank's blend of professional insight and supportive instruction makes him a standout mentor in the School of Rock community. When not teaching or playing, Hank can be found at Camden Yards.
Hunter Soth
Guitar Teacher, Vocals Teacher
Hunter brings a lifelong passion for music and a wide range of performance experience to School of Rock Pikesville. Picking up the guitar at age five and later diving into vocals training throughout high school, Hunter honed his skills at the Carver Center for Arts and Technology in Towson, where he specialized in Digital Instrumental Music. By age 16, Hunter was already performing regularly across the Baltimore and DMV area—playing bass, singing, and gigging solo on guitar.
Today, Hunter continues to stay active in the local music scene, fronting a band, playing lead guitar for another, and performing as a solo artist. A dedicated songwriter and recording artist, Hunter is committed to sharing his love for music and helping students find their own voice—literally and musically. When not working at School of Rock Pikesville or making music, you can find him drawing and painting at his desk at home.
K Nkanza
Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher
K brings a unique blend of musicianship, teaching experience, and creative artistry to School of Rock Pikesville. A graduate of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County with a BFA in Animation (Magna Cum Laude), K’s background in the fine arts complements their passion for music and education.
K has been part of the School of Rock community since 2019, teaching guitar and organizing bands for students ages 6 to 18 at the Silver Spring and Baltimore locations. Their ability to connect with young musicians, foster teamwork, and create fun, structured learning environments makes them a natural fit for our Pikesville team.
Beyond teaching, K has a strong foundation in music technology and performance. They’ve worked professionally as an audiovisual technologist for the Enoch Pratt Free Library, managing live event production with sound, video, and streaming equipment. With skills ranging from guitar instruction to audio engineering, K helps students not only learn their instrument but also appreciate the broader world of music and performance.
K’s philosophy as an instructor centers on creativity, communication, and problem-solving. Whether guiding a beginner through their first chords or helping a band prepare for the stage, K empowers students to build confidence, embrace their artistry, and have fun making music.
Kayla Soumare
Studio Coordinator
Kayla is a 2024 graduate of Owings Mills High School and brings a wealth of customer service, organization, and teamwork experience to School of Rock Pikesville. She honed her ability to create exceptional guest experiences and build customer loyalty in fast-paced environments, most recently serving as a Specialty MAC Artist and Prestige Beauty Advisor at Ulta Beauty. Known for her dependability, leadership, and strong time management skills, Kayla is passionate about ensuring every student and family has a welcoming, organized, and rockin' experience from the moment they walk through the studio doors. Her personal background in music includes studying piano and voice. When not working, Kayla can be found reconnecting with nature.
Coal
Mascot, Certified Fluff Ambassador
Coal is the beloved Newfydoodle who proudly serves as School of Rock Pikesville’s official Good Boy, fan-favorite mascot, and, on his more focused days, a highly expressive keyboard + piano player. Born with the perfect blend of Newfoundland gentleness and Poodle smarts, Coal has quickly risen through the ranks from “extremely fluffy visitor” to “irreplaceable member of the team.”
He lives with his dad, Andrew Walen, owner of School of Rock Pikesville, and takes his role very seriously (except when he doesn’t). Coal can often be found greeting students and parents with warm, wet enthusiasm, supervising the front desk or student lounge while resting his head on a conveniently placed knee, or offering creative input by stepping on a synth pad at exactly the wrong, but somehow still musical, moment.
Known for his unbelievably soft fur, world-class cuddles, and general goofiness, Coal has become a core part of the school’s culture. Whether he’s napping during rehearsals, chasing a toy or small child, or posing for his adoring fans, he brings joy, calm, and comic relief to kids and adults alike.
Coal may not always play the right notes, but he always plays from the heart, and that’s why he’s truly the Good Boy of Rock.