Phil Espinosa
Keyboard + Piano Teacher, Vocal Teacher, Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher
Phil has been performing since the age of 10 when he auditioned for the Tucson Boys Chorus and was immediately placed in the top touring group that sang all over the country and for the President's annual White House tree lighting ceremony in Washington, D.C. By high school, Phil was singing and playing keyboards with a popular local band when he was “headhunted” by a well-established group called Oracle. That band was soon picked up by national talent agency ATI and they played nightclubs and concert venues in Denver, Chicago, Milwaukee, and all points between for a decade. One of their biggest highlights was being the opening act for the international super-group Blood, Sweat & Tears.
Between tours, Phil earned a degree in Music Theory and Composition from the University of Arizona, was an assistant opera conductor as a grad student, and then switched to a degree and career in law. But he has never stopped making music and performing, both in Tucson bands playing for conventions and charitable events, and as the director and keyboardist for CCM groups at local churches where he enjoys working with many diverse musicians, both young and old.
Phil is delighted to continue expanding students' musical horizons at the School of Rock in Tucson, Arizona! He and his wife have five now-adult children who are very musical, including two attorneys, an environmental scientist, and a professional musical theater actor.
Jennifer Griswold
Little Wing Teacher, Rookies Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher
Miss Jennifer got excited about music when she learned how to play the flute and joined the orchestra in elementary school. She began private piano lessons with her teacher in Brentwood, California, and continued her passion for fine arts by studying dance and theater in high school. Miss Jennifer studied piano, theatre, and voice and became involved in college productions while studying at Santa Monica College. Her love for poetry and folk songs inspired her to begin writing songs and she formed a band with her friends and played the local venues of Los Angeles.
Miss Jennifer relocated to San Luis Obispo with her husband and son and created the Suzuki Piano School, teaching young children for over two decades. She also performed in classic rock bands and formed a jazz ensemble that performed for public and private events. Miss Jennifer worked closely with a local dance company and was hired as musical director for children’s theatre productions including Sleeping Beauty, Aladdin, and the Little Mermaid.
Now residing in Tucson with her husband and their cat, her passion for motivating and inspiring young musicians continues at School of Rock!
Daniel Villa
Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher
Daniel showcases a deep passion for the guitar and basically anything with a string. Over the past decade, he has honed his skills as a guitarist, driven by his love for rock music and an unwavering pursuit of musical excellence.
Daniel has established a strong presence in the local music scene, performing at numerous shows and open mic nights, captivating audiences with his undeniable talent. However, fueled by an unyielding ambition, he aspires to broaden his horizons and take his music on tour, reaching new audiences and expanding his creative boundaries.
In addition to his musical pursuits, Daniel is currently pursuing a BS in Applied Mathematics with a minor in Music at the University of Arizona. Expected to graduate in the fall of 2024, he embraces the harmony between his academic studies and musical endeavors, merging his analytical mindset with his artistic expression.
Ruby Joe Tuck
Studio Coordinator
Ruby Joe was introduced to music of all kinds at a very young age. Since she can remember, she has felt a connection to every genre, every instrument, and every musician she comes across.
Ruby Joe is a songwriter, guitarist, and vocalist herself. She was raised in Los Angeles and played in a band until she was 15 years old. She was fortunate enough to perform at venues such as The Mint, The Roxy, and The Troubadour. She is passionate about bringing her love of music to a younger generation.
Adam Holt
Drum Teacher, Vocal Teacher, Keyboard + Piano Teacher
Adam's passion for drumming ignited in Houston, Texas when he was 7 years old. A self-taught musician, he learned the drums by listening to the radio and soon expanded his skills to include percussion, keyboards, vocals, and guitar. In high school, Adam formed the band Temper Scarlet with lead singer Sundance Head, who notably went on to win season 11 of The Voice as part of Team Blake Shelton. After moving to Los Angeles, Adam formed a new band called Building a Better Spaceship, where he worked and recorded with Scott Weiland of Stone Temple Pilots and Velvet Revolver.
Adam has shared the stage with groundbreaking headliners like The Killers, 311, Puddle of Mudd, Hoobastank, 30 Seconds to Mars, Lifehouse, Unwritten Law, and many others. In the studio, he has collaborated with esteemed names and Grammy-winning producers such as Scott Weiland, Brian Reeves, Jim Wirt, Jeff Blue, Robin DiMaggio, Doug Green, Adam Moseley, Bruce Sterling, Greg Sartigono, Fingers & Floss, Warren G, and Jamie Adler. Drawing from diverse influences like blues, R&B, hip hop, rock, and top 40 hits, Adam has developed a distinctive drumming style. With over 200 songs written and recorded, he brings a fresh sound to his performances, captivating audiences across various venues.
Adam resides in Tucson with his fiancé, where he continues to write, play and teach music. He is thrilled to share his expertise and love of music with School of Rock students, guiding and mentoring this next generation of rock stars, fueling their dreams, and helping them unleash their full potential.
Ingrid Baumgart
Little Wing Teacher, Rookies Teacher, Guitar Teacher
Ingrid is a self-taught guitarist who began playing in an all-girl band in high school while living in Southern California. After high school, Ingrid continued to play in bands and pursued a degree in psychology. While in junior college, Ingrid took classes in voice and joined the community choir.
As an undergraduate, Ingrid pursued Research Psychology but maintained her love of music by continuing to perform in choirs and chamber choir. Upon graduating with a B.A. in Research Psychology, she began playing many venues in Los Angeles during the punk rock era and later went on several West Coast tours and eventually, a national tour opening up for punk icons like Black Flag, Circle Jerks, Bad Religion, The Melvins, Faith No More, Dirty Rotten Imbeciles, Corrosion of Conformity, The Replacements, Flipper, Frightwig, Minutemen, Meat Puppets, The Descendants and Saccharine Trust.
Ingrid returned to college and earned an M.A. in Behavioral Science with an option in Resolution and Conflict Management. That degree led to over twenty years in social work where she worked with foster children, juvenile detention, and job corps students.
Ingrid and her husband moved to Tucson in 2006 where they continue to record, write, and perform in their band, Ingrate Souls. Ingrid wants to share her love and passion for music by sharing it with Little Wing and Rookies students.
Natalie Pohanic
Vocal Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher
Natalie is a native of Tucson, Arizona, and her beginning to music was singing to lizards and honey bees in her childhood backyard, leading to explorations in classical music on cello, and a few riotous teenage garage bands.
A lifelong songwriter, Natalie makes her musical home in dream folk—songs rich with tender melody and stories of starlit desert adventures—psychedelic grunge, rock, and Ayurvedic sound healing.
Natalie studied cello performance at The University of Arizona and currently plays and teaches voice, guitar, bass, and cello.
Freddy Jay Walker
Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher
Freddy Jay Walker is an accomplished composer, musician, director, model, and actor. He embarked on a fascinating journey that led him from the world of pharmaceuticals to his true calling in the arts. Driven by an insatiable passion for music, Freddy's self-taught talents as a performer, composer, and arranger blossomed at a young age, earning him recognition from esteemed Oscar and Emmy Award-winning figures in the industry.
As a multifaceted artist, Freddy has had the privilege of working on a diverse range of projects throughout his career. From collaborating with prestigious brands such as Top Golf, Vantage West, and O'Reilly Chevrolet, he has always remained grateful for the opportunities that have come his way, while eagerly anticipating the ones yet to unfold. Along his artistic journey, Freddy has embraced the philosophy of leaving a lasting positive impression wherever he goes. His unwavering focus on delivering exceptional value and solving problems for others underscores his approach to business, transcending mere transactions and cultivating genuine relationships with clients.
Freddy firmly believes in the power of originality and the importance of allowing one's uniqueness to shine through their craft. With an unwavering commitment to professionalism and a relentless pursuit of quality, he understands that true success lies not solely in making a sale, but in fostering genuine connections and leaving a lasting impact on those he collaborates with. By showcasing the beauty of originality and offering a personalized touch in his compositions, Freddy elevates his artistry and resonates deeply with audiences and clients alike.
In Freddy's view, his role as a composer extends beyond creating music; it is about touching hearts, evoking emotions, and crafting soundscapes that enrich the stories they accompany. With an innate ability to translate narratives into captivating musical compositions, he weaves intricate melodies and harmonies that bring depth and dimension to visual media. His dedication to his craft, combined with his strong business acumen and genuine care for his clients, sets him apart as a sought-after composer in the industry.
Freddy Jay Walker is an artist who embodies the transformative power of music, constantly pushing the boundaries of creativity, and forging meaningful connections through his compositions. His unique blend of talent, professionalism, and passion fuels his journey as he continues to captivate audiences and inspire fellow artists. With every project, Freddy leaves an indelible mark, reminding us all of the profound impact that music can have on our lives.
Robert Parisi
Drum Teacher
Robert began playing the drums at the age of 13 and joined the school band after moving to Rio Rico, Arizona. Throughout high school, he continued studying music, joined the marching band, and performed in many garage bands.
Robert earned his bachelor’s degree in History from the University of Arizona and performed in local heavy rock and roll, reggae, and progressive bands. He is currently in a reggae band that tours, records music in the studio, and films music videos.
Having spent a great deal of time performing and creating with other musicians, Rob has learned valuable skills that students can use such as leadership, clear communication, and patience. Recently, Rob found a new love: teaching! With a structured style of teaching and a focus on the student’s specific goals, he is determined to help students become the best drummers they can be while having fun!
Rick Bailey
Drum Teacher, Guitar Teacher
Rick started drumming in his middle school marching band, then his high school marching and jazz bands, as well as garage bands with friends. Through the help of a great drum teacher, he got started playing professionally at 15 and has been playing in bands ever since.
Rick is currently playing live and recording and has had the opportunity to share the stage with many touring bands including The Wallflowers, Beabadoobee, and Los Lobos.
Wolfgang Wang
Keyboard + Piano Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher
Having played piano since the age of 3, Wolfgang always sought to understand other musical cultures by deviating from but also incorporating his classical upbringing. From singing across all voice parts in different choir settings to playing and coordinating in various contemporary bands, Wolfgang has also experimented with electronic sound designs and has led and arranged a capella group performances.
Described by many as music that boasts visual evocation, Wolfgang's compositions tell stories about fantasies that give courage in times of low. He continues to pursue music as the language that connects the world.