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.
Robert "Bob" Jachens
Bass Guitar Teacher, Guitar Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher, Vocal Teacher, Assistant General Manager
With over 30 years of experience as a professional musician, Bob has built an exceptional career blending artistry, technical expertise, and leadership. A classically trained church organist and tenor soloist, Bob's performances resonate in both sacred and secular spaces, captivating audiences with his vocal and instrumental talents. From leading heartfelt renditions in church services to energizing crowds at weddings, corporate events, and private gatherings, his versatility shines. He studied music at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC), with a focus on recording technologies that combined his academic background with decades of hands-on experience. His work as a freelance musician spans various bands and events, showcasing his adaptability in diverse genres, including rock, jazz, and classical music. Beyond the stage, Bob has demonstrated impressive business acumen, managing a small construction company for 25 years. His expertise in operations, scheduling, customer relations, and inventory management has honed his ability to lead teams and deliver outstanding results under pressure. Bob is the father of 3, and when he's not at work or with his mostly grown kids, he can be found skateboarding around Baltimore or rock climbing across the state.
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!
Georgia Ginsburg
Bass Guitar Teacher, Drums Teacher
Georgia brings a wealth of experience as a seasoned musician and an accomplished instructor to School of Rock Pikesville. A former School of Rock student and teacher, Georgia has firsthand knowledge of the program’s dynamic, performance-based approach to music education. Her deep understanding of the curriculum and years of professional experience as a drummer and bassist make her an invaluable mentor to aspiring musicians.
As an instructor at School of Rock Baltimore, Georgia was consistently praised for her ability to engage students of all skill levels, creating an inclusive and inspiring learning environment. Initially specializing in drums, she quickly expanded her role to include bass instruction, group rehearsals, and camp leadership. Her experience teaching advanced students and leading ensembles has honed her ability to break down complex musical concepts while keeping lessons fun and engaging.
Beyond teaching, Georgia is an active performer in the Baltimore music scene, playing drums for various bands spanning jazz, punk, metal, and electronic music. She holds a B.A. in Jazz Performance from Towson University and has performed in settings ranging from wedding bands to experimental music showcases. With a passion for helping students understand and internalize music, Georgia is dedicated to fostering the next generation of musicians at School of Rock Pikesville. When she's not teaching or playing music, you can find Georgia writing or researching for her music blog.
Henry "Hank" Upton
Bass 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 you're picking up the bass for the first time or looking to refine your 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, you can find Hank 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.
James Williamson
Keyboard + Piano Teacher, Vocals Teacher
James brings a wealth of musical experience to School of Rock Pikesville, with a strong background in keyboard + piano, vocals, and classroom music instruction. A graduate of Morgan State University with a degree in Music, James has taught students of all ages across schools, churches, and community programs. He specializes in piano and vocal technique, music theory, and performance, and has led choirs, composed original works, and directed ensembles throughout Baltimore. James is passionate about helping students unlock their musical potential in a fun, supportive environment. When not teaching, you can find James cooking and grilling some crowd favorites.
K Nkanza
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.
Demi Brown
Studio Coordinator
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.
Aidyn Mingo
Vocal Teacher
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.
Coal
Mascot, Keyboard + Piano Player, 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.