Our Experienced Music Teachers
All of School of Rock Wilmington’s music teachers are experienced musicians devoted to helping students attain musical proficiency. Our instructors guide students one-on-one to personalize learning, inspire confidence and build social skills.
Norm Giblin Owner, General Manager
Norm Giblin is a life-long lover of music, especially rock and roll! In his early years he would secretly learn rock songs like 'Stairway to Heaven' on the piano, while he was supposed to be practicing the classical music assigned by his teacher. Norm was drawn to Wilmington by the vibrant music scene, so when the opportunity came up to open a School of Rock here, he jumped at the chance! When he’s not working, you can find Norm playing the keys in the band Dekker Road, as well as various other projects.
Andrew Hirst Music Director, Guitar Teacher, Piano Teacher, Singing Teacher
Andrew Hirst is a singer, piano player, and composer with an itch for Classic Rock! Andrew is the music director, but also teaches piano, vocal, and guitar lessons at School of Rock Wilmington. With his B.A. in Music Education, Andrew has spent 10+ years teaching, playing, and singing across the country. From singing opera and performing in Carnegie Hall, to jazz trios and Classic Rock cover bands, Andrew has experience in all genres of music and is ready to help find the perfect song to get you rockin’! Andrew is so excited to join the band at School of Rock in Wilmington, and hopes to see you there!
Craig Simpson Bass Guitar Teacher, Guitar Teacher
Craig Simpson is a guitarist and bass player from Fayetteville, NC. Craig began playing guitar in his teens and since then has been a working, touring musician and music teacher. Craig has spent his many years of study mastering the licks and styles of all the rock greats, from EVH to Randy Rhoads, to SRV, and so on. Craig is a composer, and has recorded albums and toured extensively, but his “jam” is sharing his knowledge with students of all ages. Look out for his latest indie rock project ‘Hollow Place’. Craig teaches guitar and bass at School of Rock Wilmington.
Allen Baker Guitar Teacher, Bass Guitar Teacher
Allen Baker has been a student of music most of his life. He began playing in bands at a young age, which led to touring across the country and being endorsed by custom guitar maker Overload. Allen studied at Atlanta Institute of Music, where he focused extensively on music theory and technique. He is equally comfortable shredding metal as he is walking jazz bass lines. Whatever you are looking to learn, Allen can be your guide. Allen teaches guitar and bass and School of Rock Wilmington.
John Wolfe Drum Teacher
John Wolfe is an incredible drummer, singer, guitar player, teacher, writer, and also a traveller. John has toured in bands across the country, but he is also a ship captain, and sails yachts of all sizes up and down the east coast and to the Caribbean. John teaches drums at School of Rock Wilmington. He has mad skills at the drum kit, and loves to share his gift with others. John has recorded albums for a number of bands of different genres. Oh captain, my captain, play us a tune!
Lynnea Charles Piano Teacher
Lynnea Charles has spent nearly two decades playing the piano and mastering her craft. Lynnea is comfortable with all styles of music, but these days she focuses on playing rock and roll. Several years ago, Lynnea decided to share her gift with others and start teaching. Since then she has not only taught private piano lessons, but she has also taught students how to perform in a band setting, which makes Lynnea a perfect fit for piano teacher at School of Rock Wilmington! Lynnea considers teaching music not just a career, but a passion, and that is evident in her positive attitude. Lynnea relocated to Wilmington from the Raleigh area and dove right into the local music scene, collaborating with other area musicians in band projects. Be on the lookout for Lynnea on stages around town!
Phillip Milligan Drum Teacher
Phillip Milligan is a Wilmington native, and a staple of the local music scene. Ask around town who the best drummer in Wilmington is, and Phillip’s name will come up over and over! In addition to Phillip being an accomplished player, he also has a passion for teaching drums and has spent the past decade sharing his skills with students of all ages. Phillip has a positive attitude that is inspiring. He recognizes the value of practice, but doesn’t want it to feel like “homework”, so he caters his lessons to each individual student with an emphasis on keeping learning fun. When not teaching drums at School of Rock Wilmington, Phillip is either out on the water, bowling, or playing on a local stage in one of his various band projects.