Our Team

Our mission at Rock 101 NM is to empower ABQ through music and build a community of talented and professional musicians by providing exciting and engaging opportunities for our students to grow individually and as a team.

Interested in Joining our Team?

Kevin Herig

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR / FOUNDER
Master of Inspiration

Values: Community, Connection, Well-Being

First Concert / Best Concert: Britney Spears / Brett Dennen

Musical Collab Bucket List: Jack Johnson

Theme Song: Allstar by Smashmouth (Always absently humming this song!)

Check out: Barcelona

When Kevin began guitar lessons at the age of 11, he had no idea it would lead to a lifelong love of all things music. He played with friends, starting his first band Asper Kourt in high school, and came to understand that music is a connector. Music and songwriting is a bridge between Kevin and the world, his feelings, and other people. He fell in love with teaching music because of those powerful moments when he sees something “click” for a student. Knowing that he played a role in opening that door for someone feels humbling and empowering.
Kevin earned a Bachelor of Business (Entrepreneurial Studies) at UNM and founded Rock 101 Music Academy in 2011 immediately following graduation. He continues to write music as a solo artist and has produced 5 studio albums with more on the way. You can find him building community at Rock 101, rock climbing with friends, or playing his music at a show around town!

Marshall Broyles

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
Assistant to the Director

Values: Authenticity, Community, Curiosity

Creative Process in One Word: Thoughtful

Theme Song: Avant Gardener by Courtney Barnett. (I love the way her songwriting uses the thoughts we usually keep in our heads. I relate to the stream of consciousness of the struggle.)

Musical Bucket List: To open a recording studio

Check out: Black Blood by Ugly Robot

Marshall became hooked on music on his 13th birthday when his dad gifted him an Epiphone SG electric guitar and amp, the same type of guitar played by Angus Young of AC/DC. Around that same time, Marshall experienced a loss and playing the guitar became a part of his healing. This emotional outlet has remained a constant in his life. As Rock 101 Assistant Director, he has the opportunity to both teach and mentor others. He enjoys contributing to the Albuquerque community and fostering connection and character through music.
Marshall earned a B.A. in Music from the University of New Mexico. Marshall's guitar playing and drumming have been featured in ensembles from Indie Rock, Honky-Tonk and Electronic Rock. He loves collaborating in musical projects, including the local bands Homebody and Ugly Robot. As Assistant Director, he leads several Rock 101 projects and writes music curriculum for students. When not juggling all of that amazingness, you will most likely find him traveling and exploring the outdoors with his wife and dog.

Bridgette Encinias

STUDIO MANAGER
DJ to Our Disco

Values: Happiness, Health, Authenticity

First Concert / Best Concert: Akon / Luke Combs

Hobbies: weight life, paint/draw, spend time with her dogs

Musical Bucket List: to perform in front of an audience

Check out: Bridgy’s Boutique
Learn More on the Blog: Reflections with Bridgette

Bridgette felt connected to music from a young age. Playing the violin for 6 years and watching her father play multiple instruments, Bridgette learned to appreciate the beauty and emotion that music could convey. Using her love for music as a driving force, Bridgette brings her enthusiasm for creativity and organization to Rock 101 as she focuses on building and maintaining the Rock 101 community.
Bridgette feels a deep commitment to positively impacting her community and has done so over the years through many positions, from development coordinator to laboratory analyst. In addition to Bridgette’s love for music and the community, she is also interested in Biology and Nutrition. She pursued education in these fields, and shares her knowledge and expertise willingly with others.. She loves crafting and owns her own Etsy store, Bridgy’s Boutique, selling her handcrafted products.

Brittney Cavit

SCHEDULING COORDINATOR
Chaos Wrangler

Values: Community, Inclusion, Family

First Concert / Best Concert: Toby Keith / Voodoo Music Festival in New Orleans (specifically Yelawolf)

Theme Song: Wildflowers and Wild Horses by Lainey Wilson (because no matter what, I’m going to get things done!)

Bucket List: To own a homestead or farm

Brittney became hooked on music when she picked up a saxophone in middle school. She spent ten years playing in marching bands, honing her skills, and has carried the love of music with her ever since. As a mother of four, she brings not only an appreciation of music but also an understanding of holistic development to her role as Scheduling Coordinator.
Brittney earned a Bachelor degree in Emergency Medicine from Central New Mexico Community College as well as a Bachelor degree in Early Childhood Education from Ashford University. She is passionate about nurturing young minds and advocating for inclusive and supportive educational practices. When she is not caught up in all of the scheduling fun, you will find her hanging out with her kids, her chickens, or both!

Kayla martinez Herig

BRAND MANAGER
Protectress of the Vibe

Values: Respect, Well-Being, Authenticity

Creative Process in One Word: Evolving

Theme Song: “Barcelona” by Kevin Herig (“She puts out the good fruit, never weighs your worth.”)

Artistic Collab Bucket List: Frida Kahlo (Her ability to use art as a source of healing amidst great pain is inspiring.)

Check out: Eleven Design

Kayla’s favorite musical moments involve witnessing positive transformations in students as they walk off the stage after a performance. These moments fuel her passion for building a vibrant community and providing a pathway to music by expanding Rock 101’s reach. She does this by combining innovative design, communications, and marketing principles.
Kayla is a graphic designer, branding expert, and marketing professional. She received her B.A. in Mass Communications from UNM in 2011. Aside from Rock 101, Kayla has worked for numerous New Mexico-based businesses including Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm, MediaDesk NM, and Albuquerque Community Foundation. She owns and operates Eleven Design, a creative marketing & branding company, through which she has had the opportunity to collaborate and elevate a diverse group of small local businesses, entrepreneurs, artists, and musicians. When not bringing creative innovation to others, you can find her working on a puzzle or playing with design, printmaking, and a variety of crafts.

Danielle Parker

COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
Storytelling Guru

Values: Truth, Wonder, Presence

Creative Process in One Word: Stillness

Theme Song: Fantastic Plastic Machine by Bachelor Pad (because this is how I envision myself walking down the street)

Career Bucket List: To be interviewed by Oprah!

Check out: Dwell with Danielle

Danielle learned about music from her father, listening to classic rock during road trips and watching him appreciate music during quiet moments. She has played the piano since the age of 4 and, as an adult, is dipping her toe into the worlds of guitar and vocals. Danielle thrives on building meaningful connections with those around her. A storyteller at heart, Danielle finds purpose in weaving narratives that embody the wholeheartedness of a person or place.
Danielle has earned a B.S. in Biology from Cornell University, an M.A. in Teaching from East Carolina University, an M.S. in Coastal Zone Management from Nova Southeastern University, and a Secondary Montessori Certification from Houston Montessori Center. She has worked in the field of education since 2003. Danielle is a 500-RYT advanced yoga teacher, the owner of the small business The Salty Blossom, and the author of the must-read book Pink Panties & Other Life Lessons. When not writing or teaching, Danielle is most likely reading, practicing mindfulness, or hiking with her family.

Lise Watkins

ARTIST / DESIGNER
Artist in Residence

Values: Kindness (for Self & Others)

Creative Process in One Word: Experimentation

Theme Song: I Can Drive You Crazy by Sierra Farrell (Because I can be a bit annoying but people still like me!)

Musical Bucket List: Getting first row tickets at Red Rocks!

Check out: Lise Watkins Fine Arts and Then Some

With a father who was a professional musician in the 60s/70s southern California music scene, Lise has always loved music. She is the only person in her very musical family who does not play an instrument, though she admits there is always time to learn! An artist at heart, Lise is delighted to bring her talents to Rock 101. She hopes to help students explore their creative sides through art and design.
Lise studied photography and graphic design at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. She has worked as a graphic designer and illustrator for over 15 years, collaborating with bands like Muse and the String Cheese Incident, and with music festivals like Bonaroo, Electric Forest, and many others. Her personal and professional goals are to be kinder, weirder, and to never have a job that expects her to wear high heels ever again. When not at work, you will find her knee-deep in a DIY home improvement project or out in her painting studio.

INSTRUCTORS

Alex Alunday

PIANO / SAXOPHONE
Bringing Saxy Back

Values: Compassion, Courage, Individuality

Stage Presence in One Word: Joyful

Theme Song: Woke Up Today by Jacob Collier (Because it has such great energy to it.)

Musical Bucket List: I’d love to tour the world!

Check out: Songs Without Purpose at the Guild

Alex grew up watching his dad play in a college jazz band. With this as inspiration, he developed a passion for saxophone and piano, sharpening his skills through the years. As an instructor, Alex loves inspiring and guiding his students to achieve their goals.
Alex studied Jazz Studies at the University of New Mexico. Under the tutelage of mentors such as John Funkhouser, Ashley Kelly, and Doug Lawrence, Alex has honed his craft, developing a unique style that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. With an impressive command of both saxophone and piano, Alex's musical journey has been marked by a passionate exploration of jazz across New Mexico and Colorado. When not performing, you can find Alex chilling with his cats.

Allison Sherrill

GUITAR / BASS / UKULELE / DRUMS / BANJO
The Rock Jock

Values: Openness, Authenticity, Freedom

Creative Process in One Word: Curious

Stage Presence in One Word: Contingent

Theme Song: Taming the Dragon by Brad Mehldau (I was born in the year of the Dragon, and have a little obsession with Dragons. This song is the story of a Dream, where in the end the dreamer finds out the point of life isn’t to kill the Dragon inside you but to harness the voodoo it gives you, and to make friends with the dragon parts of you.)

Growing up in a musical household, Allison started singing before she could talk. She was one of the first students of Rock 101 in 2011 and has been working with a variety of instructors and fellow students ever since. Transitioning from student, to intern, to instructor, Allison treasures the opportunity to inspire and empower others through music.
Allison studies music theory, composition, and technique in a variety of genres, working with professional musicians in New York and Nashville. She enjoys creating and collaborating with local friends and fellow New Mexican musicians. When not being musical, Allison loves rock climbing, writing, and reading.

Dustin Harvey

GUITAR / BASS / UKE / PIANO / DRUMS / FREEBIRDS
Big Bird

Values: Dedication, Learning, Sincerity

First Concert / Best Concert: The Green Chile Jam Band / Interpol (Mostly because I got to meet them as they snuck out the back of the venue)

Creative Process in One Word: Loose

Musical Collab Bucket List: Daft Punk (I want one of those helmets made for me!)

Check out: Albukaraoke

Read more on the blog: The Intriguing Case of Dustin Harvey

Growing up with family members who all enjoyed different genres of music, musical variety was a constant in Dustin’s life. Mesmerized by the sounds of guitars, Dustin received a Yamaha guitar as a gift when he was 13. Mostly self-taught, he played with various bands throughout his high school and college years. As an instructor, Dustin aims to instill a deeper connection, love, and curiosity in his students while cultivating their individual ability, musicality, and "feel" for the music.
Dustin worked previously for Albuquerque Public Schools in early childhood education. He uses the skills and patience learned in the classroom and applies it to helping students of all ages discover their musical genius. In addition to teaching, he is a member of Albukaraoke, a local karaoke band. A new dad, he loves taking care of his daughter, Luci, as well as playing games, doodling, and walking his dogs.

Emma Daves

VOCALS / PIANO / UKULELE / FREEBIRDS
Opera Rocktress

Values: Authenticity, Curiosity, Kindness

Musical Collab Bucket List: Taylor Swift! I really love her approach to audience engagement, healthy sounds, songwriting based on life happenings, and the way she is constantly changing standards in the industry

Stage Presence in One Word: Goofy

Musical Bucket List: I would love to compete in and win the Laffont Competition at the Metropolitan Opera.

Check out: Art Is Calling For Me!

With the ongoing joke that she was born singing, Emma has explored music since elementary school. She sang in choirs and played trombone through her school years, eventually entering undergrad as a Jazz vocalist and intent on teaching High School Choir. After seeing her first opera, she was hooked and she shifted course accordingly. Emma enjoys exposing new audiences to the dramatic stories told in operas. She is intent on making the artform accessible to all while also fostering a love of music and healthy expression.
Emma earned a Bachelors in Music Education & Vocal Performance from East Carolina University as well as a Master of Music in Literature & Performance from the University of Western Ontario. She is currently pursuing a Graduate Certificate from the University of New Mexico where she will study with James Flora. She has performed in Canada, Austria, and the United States, including the Summer Music Festival in Austria and at the Taos Opera Institute. While singing is her passion, Emma also finds joy in spending time with her cat and watching reality TV.

Ezra Sena

GUITAR / BASS / DRUMS
Won't Stop Believin'

Values: Honesty, Humility, Perseverance

Stage Presence in One Word: Unhinged

Musical Collab Bucket List: Post Malone

Theme Song: Today Was a Good Day by Ice Cube (Because it tells us that no matter what’s happening in the world around us, it’s up to us to remain positive and enjoy every single day like we won’t have another one.)

Check out: Home by Willajay

It started with Guitar Hero and turned into a lifelong passion for music! After spending hours learning Sunshine of Your Love by Cream via Guitar Hero, Ezra got his musical debut as an 8-year-old as a guitarist at his father’s church. Ezra continued to perform in various churches and bands across New Mexico and Texas, honing his skills as he went. Presently, he works as a guitarist and bassist at various Albuquerque venues and beyond, showcasing his expertise on a weekly basis.
As an instructor, Ezra works to ignite the same passion for music in his students that has fueled him through the years. Ezra emphasizes the universal language of music, viewing it as a powerful means of communication and a wholesome outlet for creativity. His ultimate goal is not only to teach but to foster a continuous cycle of learning and growth for himself and his students. When not creating musical goodness, you will find Ezra painting in his studio.

Issac Trujillo

GUITAR / BASS / DRUMS / SAXOPHONE / PIANO
Rock 101 Papa

Values: Willingness to Learn, Honesty, Patience

First Concert / Best Concert: KISS, Ted Nugent, Skid Row / Metallica in Tucson, 2006 (tickets were $30!)

Creative Process in One Word: Flow

Musical Bucket List: I would like to write, record, and produce an album of music with all of my musical friends.

Check out: Regicide by Accidental Damage

Issac has always been fascinated with the practice of creating music. Some of his earliest memories involve watching musicians fabricate music out of thin air. This inspired him to start saxophone lessons in 4th grade. He has been playing music and learning additional instruments ever since! In college, he started teaching music lessons. He loves contributing to others’ passions for learning by giving them musical tools with which they can create.
Issac earned a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education and a Master’s degree in Music Theory and Composition. He has been a Rock 101 instructor since 2012 as well as an active musician in several local Metal and Country bands. Issac enjoys working in the entertainment industry and is involved with a variety of concerts and events, including the New Mexico State Fair.

Jabez Lebres

BASS / GUITAR
Most Likely to Succeed

Values: Kindness, Humility, Ambition

Stage Presence in One Word: Energetic

Theme Song: Fly as Me by Silk Sonic (Because when you look good, you play good. That goes for everything in life!)

Musical Bucket List: Go on a North American tour!

Check out: The Mango Cakes Live @ The Launchpad 2024

Growing up in the Philippines, Jabez was first exposed to music as a child when his mom purchased a CD player. He listened to a variety of music, from classical to jazz with some MTV punk rock sprinkled in. He started his musical career by playing bass for his church at the age of 14. Immigrating to the United States in 2009, music became his way of communicating and finding his place in rural North Carolina. Now an instructor, Jabez teaches music from the perspective of universal language, using the building blocks of rhythm, melody, harmony, and dynamics, elements to which every human being can relate.
Jabez earned a B.A. in Pre-Occupational Therapy and Wellness with a minor in Psychology from University of New Mexico in 2017. With more than a decade of musical experience, he is part of The Mango Cakes, a local Albuquerque band. He has also written and produced music for ESPN’s broadcast of the NBA Playoffs and NBA Finals. When not teaching or rocking, he can be found building Legos or finding mental balance by going to the gym.

Jameson Ray

DRUMS / GUITAR / BASS / PIANO / TRUMPET
Pun Master Flex

Values: Fun, Play, Creativity

First Concert / Best Concert: Yanni / Sir Paul McCartney

Creative Process in One Word: Collaboration

Musical Collab Bucket List: Ringo & Paul McCartney

Check out: Gumshoe by Crime Lab

Read more on the blog: Pun Master Flex: Introducing Jameson Ray

Jameson has been hooked on music ever since his older sister started taking piano lessons when he was 5 years old. After watching her practice and then trying to mimic her, Jameson’s parents consented to send him to piano lessons despite his young age. The rest is history! As an instructor, Jameson strives to awaken the fire, hunger, and curiosity in his students that will help them to feel the joy of music.
Jameson earned a B.A. degree from the University of New Mexico. He has formally studied and played music for 27 years, with 20 of those years spent recording and touring with various acts. Jameson has been an active member of the Albuquerque music community for over seventeen years, playing with Crime Lab, Kevin Herig, and other musical adventures. When not teaching or playing music, Jameson can be found practicing his pinball skills or reading a good book.

Janessa Cruz

FREEBIRDS / VOCALS / PIANO
The Pied Piper

Values: Self-confidence, Commitment, Honesty

Creative Process in One Word: Thoughtful

Stage Presence in One Word: Intentional

Musical Collab Bucket List: John Bellion because I admire his songwriting.

Janessa first fell in love with music by listening to the worship band performances in church. After focusing on music for her undergraduate degree, she is now committed to inspiring the next generation of musicians by helping them experience the transformative power of music.
Janessa earned a B.S. in Music (vocal emphasis) with a minor in Psychology from Eastern New Mexico University. With several years of choral experience, she brings both knowledge and experience to her teaching. She believes in tailoring her lessons to meet the individual needs and interests of each student. She feels passionate about helping young musicians to become confident and skilled at their instrument.

Ken Broyles

DRUMS / GUITAR / BASS / PIANO / UKULELE
The Melomaniac

Values: Honesty, Understanding, Patience

First Concert / Best Concert: Eagles / Herbie Hancock

Stage Presence in One Word: Personified

Musical Bucket List: To be a member of The Late Show Band

Check out: Clutter by Brush Strokes

With a drummer for a dad, Ken became interested in drums at an early age. Later, while on a vacation to Hawai’i, he purchased a ukulele and proceeded to teach himself uke and piano. His musical repertoire has only expanded from there. Ken’s favorite part about music is collaborating with friends and local musicians. He has experience in folk, jazz, rock, rap, electronic music, and more. Ken loves to pass his passion for musical theory on to his students.
Ken studied music theory and composition at the University of New Mexico. He also sang bass in the UNM Dulce Suono choir. He is currently a member of several local bands: Coalesce Blue, The MumboJumbo Jazz Band, Albukaraoque, and Ugly Robot. When not playing music, chances are you’ll find him practicing martial arts, playing tabletop games, or hanging out with his cat.

Kendall Jones

GUITAR / BASS / PIANO / DRUMS
Golden Ear Engineer

Values: Creativity, Belonging, Self-discipline

Creative Process in One Word: Oops

Stage Presence in One Word: Chill

Music Bucket List: To have some of my music pressed to vinyl!

Check out: Little Hours by Dollar Store Queen

Though he grew up with a love of music, Kendall’s parents ignited his passion when they purchased a guitar for him in 6th grade. Kendall worked diligently to learn the instrument, later adding on the skills of bass, piano, and drums. Now an instructor, Kendall focuses on spreading his expertise and joy to others.
Kendall earned a B.A. in Music, spending time at both the University of New Mexico and the University of New Orleans. He has been performing and recording professionally since 2012, recently expanding his skillset to producing, tracking, and mixing. With years of experience in the music industry and expertise in multiple instruments, Kendall enjoys sharing his extensive knowledge and love of music with his students.

Ken Easton

GUITAR / PIANO / VOCALS / BASS / UKULELE
The Yay-Sayer

Values: Commitment, Compassion, Connection

Creative Process in One Word: Reactive

Musical Collab Bucket List: Noah Kahan (to pick his brain about songwriting!)

Theme Song: "Rock and Roll Doctor" by Little Feat, because nothing beats the line "two degrees in bebop, a PhD in swing, he's a master of rhythm, he's a rock & roll king"

Check out: Someone Else by Hooks & the Huckleberries

Ken has always been fascinated by musical instruments. He was often found experimenting with music around the house as a young child and he started playing piano for his church at the age of 5. Music has been a constant in Ken’s life. It is something that helps Ken to make sense of his life and the world around him. He joined Rock 101 as a student and an intern at the age of 15 and he’s been here ever since! His specialty is in jazz and blues, focusing heavily on learning through repertoire, improv, and theory.
Ken has studied music education under Dr. Oliver Tucker, classical voice under Professor Jamie Flora, and blues guitar under Bob Margolin and Fiona Boyes. He currently plays in several local Albuquerque bands: Hooks and the Huckleberries, Jimmy Deveney and the Hold Fast Union, JD Nash and the Rash of Cash, Justin Nunez, and Grey Star Ghost. When not playing or teaching music, he loves to rock climb and to read a good book while snuggling with his cats.

Kristen Rad

VIOLIN / PIANO
The Stringed Goddess

Values: Creative, Resourceful, Dedicated

First Concert / Best Concert: The Offspring / Blue October

Musical Collab Bucket List: Tim Charles from Ne Obliviscaris (He's an incredible, classically trained violinist and he's a genuinely kind person, I think he'd be fun to work with.)

Musical Bucket List: To be hired by a bigger name band, like Gogol Bordello, and go on tour across the US and Europe.

Kristen began her musical journey at the age of 8, when she first started playing the violin. She worked steadily at growing her skills both in middle and high school as well as through the Albuquerque Youth Symphony Program. As both a person and an instructor, Kristen believes in continuous learning and growth. By following this personal philosophy, Kristen took her classical violin skills and successfully adapted them to many genres, including country, Americana, and classic rock.
Kristen earned a Psychology degree at Eastern New Mexico University and was part of the Clovis Community Orchestra. Currently, she is a member of The High Desert Playboys and The WesternHers. She has collaborated with Red Mesa and has experience touring with various bands throughout the country. When not creating stringed excellence, Kristen loves to expand her knowledge through the world of crafts and woodworking.

Sam Martinez

CELLO / BASS / DRUMS / GUITAR / PIANO
The Grateful Shredder

Values: Patience, Focus, Consistency

First Concert / Best Concert: Earth, Wind, and Fire / Phish

Stage Presence in One Word: Fun

Theme Song: A Movement In The Light by Fishbone (Because it’s all about looking ahead and finding the light to help you keep going)

Check out: UNMSO Performs Stravinsky

Sam grew up in a household where music was a constant. Though he started his musical journey with classical piano at the age of 8, he learned cello a few years later and knew that he would play the instrument for the rest of his life. Playing with various bands inspired him to learn as much about music theory and instruments as possible. He went on to learn guitar, bass, double bass, and jazz bass. He joined Rock 101 as a student in 7th grade and had so much fun that he chose to remain part of the community by transitioning into an instructor.
Sam is currently working towards his Cello Performance degree from the University of New Mexico. He applies many genres of music to the cello, including honky tonk, bluegrass, folk, and jazz. When not studying music, Sam can be found hanging with the Ken Casa Collective, applying the characteristics of patience, dedication, and focus to the skill toy kendama.

Shane Hall

VOCALS
Rock 101 Royalty

Values: Patience, Performance, Expression

First Concert / Best Concert: Skillet / "Pelleas et Melisande" - Debussy at Santa Fe Opera

Stage Presence in One Word: Measured

Musical Collab Bucket List: Björk (Because she has one of the most enigmatic minds and she creates music that no one else could think of)

Check out: “A Glimpse” from Ned Rorem’s “Evidence of Things Not Seen”

Shane cannot remember a time in his life that was not encompassed by a love of singing, performing, and music in general. As a child, he performed in church and community youth choirs until he moved from Texas to New Mexico, where he sang in high school choir and praise groups. Shane believes singing to be a particularly vulnerable form of music; as a teacher, he enjoys having the opportunity to help people grow both physically and mentally.
Shane is currently finishing up his Bachelors of Music from the University of New Mexico. UNM’s voice department has allowed Shane to study performance in a variety of genres from classical to musical theatre to jazz. Through his time at college, he led the UNM Concert Choir as president for two years. He also performed in and assisted in directing operas, taught voice lessons, and competed in several competitions including the Vocal Artistry Art Song Foundation competition at which he won the Carl Halama Award. What does he do when he’s not singing? You’ll find him lounging and binging reality tv.

Tina Marquez

DRUMS
Rhythm Master

Values: Self-Improvement

First Concert / Best Concert: George Thorogood / Cory Wong

Stage Presence in One Word: Smile

Musical Collab Bucket List: Benson Boone (Because I love his stage presence)

Check out: The Mango Cakes Live at the Launchpad

Tina’s musical journey began at 8 years old when she met Susette Quintanilla, the sister and drummer for the Spanish singer Selena. From that point forward, Tina wanted to play the drums! She incorporated musical endeavors into all of her schooling from middle school through high school. Now an instructor, she loves giving back to the community that raised her.
Tina earned a B.A. degree in Psychology and Music from the University of New Mexico. She has toured with Drum Corps International, showcased her talent with esteemed ensembles such as the New Mexico Philharmonic and Albuquerque Jazz Orchestra, and collaborated with numerous country, pop, Latin, and rock groups throughout the region. She currently serves as the director of percussion at La Cueva High School. When not drumming or teaching, she is out and about in her beloved New Mexico running, snowboarding, or working out at the gym.

Will Ribbans

GUITAR / BASS / PIANO
Turner of the Tables

Values: Discipline, Consistency, Creative Expression

Creative Process in One Word: Fluid

Stage Presence in One Word: Precise

Musical Bucket List: Perform at Red Rocks

Check out: I’m Wrong by Trillbot

Will’s musical journey started at the age of 8 when his mom taught him the Beatles on piano. He shortly switched to guitar and then, at the age of 16, discovered music production and DJing. The journey from piano to creating electronic fusion music inspired his love for all instruments and their piece in the puzzle for musical compositions. His experiences learning music from passionate mentors at a young age were the most important moments in his life. Now, as an instructor, he is excited to pass that energy on to his students.
Will is currently a musician, music producer, and DJ. His project "TrillBot" utilizes electric guitar, bass, keys, and synthesizer in combination with modern drum samples and production techniques to complete his sound. He also plays in the local Indie Rock band Sun Sounds with his partner Tessa Nickerson. When he’s not playing music around Albuquerque and Santa Fe, you will find him with Tessa having outdoor adventures.

Wren Mied

PIANO / VOCALS / GUITAR / UKULELE / BASS
Tough Act to Follow

Values: Community, Collaboration, Creativity

First Concert / Best Concert: Paramour & Fall Out Boy / Malinda Reese

Stage Presence in One Word: Friendly

Musical Bucket List: To see a musical that I wrote being performed

Playing piano since the age of 6, music has always been a passion for Wren. This former Rock 101 student and intern went on to learn how to sing and to play the guitar, ukulele, bass, and even the oboe. Now an instructor, Wren enjoys seeing other people discover their passion for music. They love having a role in cultivating an excitement for learning.
Wren earned a Bachelor of Music in Composition from the University of Missouri Kansas City as well as a Master of Fine Arts in Musical Theater Writing from New York University. Wren’s specialty is writing music and lyrics for musical theater. When not creating musical masterpieces, they love playing board games and writing stories.

Alex McMahon

GUITAR

Values: Imprecision, Authenticity, Patience

First Concert / Best Concert: The Doors with Ian Astbury / Charles Bradley

Stage Presence in One Word: Happy Accident

Musical Collab Bucket List: Richard Buckner (His poetics along with his musical arrangements were one of the first realizations that songs can be whatever you want them to be. )

Check out: Disfigure_GraveyardShift by Alex McMahon

Little did Alex know that on a fateful morning in elementary school, his world would shift forevermore. On that day, Alex’s music teacher brought a pink paisley telecaster to use in class. Although he enjoyed the music, Alex was transfixed by the magnetic aura of the guitar. This 5-year-old Alex went home, begged his parents for a guitar, and has been playing ever since. Alex feels passionate about music being a life-long companion as well as an expression of art.
Alex earned a B.A. from University of New Mexico. He is a multi-instrumentalist, through which he writes, records, and produces his own music. He plays in GRAL Brothers and records/tours with The Handsome Family. When Alex is not exploring sounds and textures through music, he enjoys making collages, something that often coincides with his musical projects.

Brandon Cordova

DRUMS

Values: Kindness, Positivity, Respect

First Concert / Best Concert: Red Hot Chili Peppers with Snoop Dogg / Bonobo