James Applegate
General Manager
James has been rocking the music scene in New Jersey since 2014. A Berklee College of Music alum, he has mastered the art of drumming and has shared his expertise with hundreds of students on the East Coast, leading numerous successful bands along the way.
Now, James is dedicated to building a community that's all about the love of music at the School of Rock in South Plainfield, New Jersey. Get ready to be inspired!
Matt Storer
Music Director
Get ready to rock with Matt, our music director and multi-instrumental mastermind at the School of Rock in South Plainfield, New Jersey.
Matt is a School of Rock alum and was twice selected to the School of Rock AllStars program. Simply put, Matt's music DNA is pure School of Rock spirit! After honing his craft as a vocal, guitar, and bass instructor, Matt explored the East Coast music scene before returning to his roots. Now, he's leading the charge at School of Rock South Plainfield!
Matt lives and breathes alternative, pop-punk, and post-hardcore music. When not directing, he's recording, producing, or running live sound for touring bands. His secret weapon? Teaching face-melting vocals.
Get ready to plug in, turn up, and join your musical adventure with Matt at the helm.
Megan Oates
Studio Coordinator
Meet Stephanie, School of Rock South Plainfield Studio Coordinator extraordinaire.
Megan likes being part of the unique experience School of Rock provides to its students, and enjoys watching everyone grow and come out of their shell. She comes from a performance background, with experience in acting, dance, and music. She is happy to help in any way she can to make your experience the best it can be!
Rita Seidl
Executive Director, Co-Owner
Rita Seidl is our executive director, co-owner, and chief enthusiast for music education.
With a background blending language education, theater performance, and journalism, Rita harmonizes her passions to support our instructors and inspire young rock stars.
As a mom herself, Rita's mission is clear: to make music learning a fun, lifelong adventure for students of all ages. She is dedicated to listening to parents, students, and team members alike and ensuring School of Rock South Plainfield strikes the perfect chord for our community. Say hi anytime; Rita's always ready for a friendly chat.
Brooke
Vocal Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher
Meet Brooke, the powerhouse singer-songwriter-keyboardist lighting up New Jersey, one stage at a time! From festivals to buzzing bars, and grand theaters, she’s done it all. Currently, she’s the lead vocalist for not one but two dynamic pop-R&B cover bands, spreading feel-good vibes wherever they perform.
Brooke’s passion for music knows no bounds, crossing genres and connecting hearts. At School of Rock, she inspires the next generation, helping them uncover their unique sound and rock their own style. Music isn’t just her talent—it’s her superpower!
Caryn Feder
Bass Guitar Teacher, Drum Teacher, Guitar Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher, Vocal Teacher
Caryn is a multi-instrumentalist who teaches drums, guitar, piano, bass, and vocals.
Caryn started a professional teaching career at just 12 years old and has earned degrees in music education and music performance, bringing a wealth of knowledge to students.
As a performer, Caryn has led many groups, including rock and jazz bands and percussion ensembles. For Caryn, teaching is about more than just playing—it’s about passing on the joy of music and inspiring future generations to explore their musical potential, no matter the instrument.
Charlie Hilgendorff
Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher
Charlie teaches both bass and guitar at the School of Rock in South Plainfield, with years of experience across classical, metal, blues, jazz, and more.
Known for playing bass in the metal band Mourning, Charlie continues to pursue musical growth and is working on a guitar certification through The Berklee College of Music.
With a passion for teaching and a love of all musical styles, Charlie creates an environment where students can craft their own journey, exploring everything from intricate riffs to powerful rhythms.
Juno
Vocal Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher
Juno is a performing vocalist and recording artist, bringing extensive experience from the NYC music scene, with expertise in pop, R&B, and jazz.
Juno has a deep knowledge of vocal pedagogy and music theory and is dedicated to helping students discover their unique voices. Equally passionate about performing and producing music, Juno encourages students to explore their full potential in the studio or on stage.
Kieran Banayos
Guitar Teacher
Are you ready to rock? You will be.
Kieran is a teacher at School of Rock South Plainfield with experience in multiple guitar styles. After years of studying with various mentors, he's honed his technique and now passes on his knowledge to students.
Kieran's focus is on helping students achieve their goals while enjoying the journey and building a passionate music community at School of Rock South Plainfield.
Mike LePond
Bass Guitar Teacher
Mike LePond is an internationally recognized bassist best known for his work with the progressive metal band Symphony X, with whom he has recorded and toured globally for over two decades. With a career spanning more than 30 years, Mike brings a wealth of real-world experience to his teaching, combining classical technique with modern metal virtuosity.
A lifelong student of theory and composition, Mike specializes in metal, rock, and progressive styles, as well as fingerstyle, pick playing, and advanced rhythm and harmony concepts. His powerful yet melodic playing has earned him a reputation as one of the most skilled and versatile bassists in modern metal. His experience as a performer, songwriter, and recording artist enables him to guide students not just in technique, but also in areas like songwriting, studio performance, touring preparation, and music business fundamentals.
Whether you're an aspiring metal bassist or looking to expand your musical vocabulary, Mike offers a hands-on, personalized teaching approach grounded in real-world application and a passion for the instrument at School of Rock South Plainfield.
Peter Roefaro
Drum Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher
Peter is the rhythm behind the School of Rock in South Plainfield, currently studying jazz performance at NJCU while actively performing in the tristate music scene.
From classic rock to Latin, salsa, and jazz ensembles, Peter’s passion for drums began in high school, quickly leading to performances in jazz and big bands, as well as forming a personal jazz trio.
Peter’s teaching philosophy emphasizes talent, technique, and passion while pushing students beyond their comfort zones. Mentorship and fun are at the core of helping students thrive in any musical genre.