At Rockshop Music, our teachers are more than just instructors—they're passionate, experienced musicians dedicated to inspiring the next generation of artists. Each member of our teaching staff brings real-world performance to every lesson, combining technical skill with a love for music education. We take the time to understand each student’s goals, learning style, and musical taste to create a personalized learning experience that’s fun, supportive, and truly effective. Whether you're learning guitar, piano, vocals, drums, or saxophone, you'll be guided by someone who genuinely cares about your growth—on and off the stage.
OUR TEACHERS
James Striffolino - Guitar/Bass/Piano
James is the proud owner of Rockshop and has been destined to be in the music business since birth. He comes from a long line of trained musicians and his family owned and operated one of NJ’s first and longstanding music stores. He’s been playing guitar since the age of seven. He trained at Berklee and Musicians Institute before joining the infamous Los Angeles Rock band the Icarus Line and toured the world. After moving back to New Jersey he joined Beatlemania and was cast as George Harrison while also starting Rockshop. Teaching became a passion, and James has taught and placed hundreds of kids and adults in performing bands. James’s own skill and experience has given him the talent for creating all of our band programs that truly set us apart from others.
Anna Deluca - Vocal/Piano
Anna has been teaching over 15 years and been performing since the age of 10! She studied at the Brooklyn Conservatory and performed countless gigs as lead vocalist and band leader. Anna is well versed in many styles ranging from Pop to Rock and Theater. Her dynamic range, vocal control and knowledge of scales and harmony along with her passion and love for music is what makes her one of our most in demand teachers.
Mikey Rosen - Drums/Production
Drums and music have always been integral parts of Mike Rosen’s life. Stemming from a family of drummers, he began playing at a young age, and pursued lessons growing up at Rockshop’s first iteration, Musicians Workshop. He began teaching as a High School Senior, steadily working of instruction while also pursuing a degree at TCNJ. After college he fully committed to being a full-time instructor and the rest is history! When he’s not at Rockshop you can catch Mikey playing in his band Mom Pop Duma, or on Q104.3’s Jim Kerr Morning Show on Wednesdays where he helps create contest clips with Trevor’s Friend Frank on the radio!
Pete Fenske - Guitar/Bass/Production
Pete started his musical journey with us as a 6 year old guitar student. As the years went by he stood out among the rest by becoming proficient in progressive rock, metal and beginning his studies of jazz. He then went on to study at Berklee College of Music and qualified for the Music Production and Engineering Program. Now he has become a teacher with us and is still furthering his knowledge. Pete is passionate about all things music and has played and recorded on multiple albums and singles.
Kenny Herman - Guitar/Production
Kenny is another former student turned teacher and has played in many Rockshop Bands. His love for metal and attention to detail stood out amongst the rest and he quickly became one of the programs top lead guitarists. As he grows and attends College he is studying music production and theory classes.
Donovan Evans - Guitar/Bass
Donovan is a true Rock and Roller. He’s played many gigs in various different bands across the tristate area. He has experience in teaching guitar and bass as well as recording many bands.
Gab Cinque - Vocal
Gab Cinque is one of the East Coasts up and coming stars. She’s the frontwoman of the coveted Gab Cinque Band. They won “Best Local Cover Band” in the 2023 WRAT Shore awards, and has garnered over 4 million viral views on social media. Her powerhouse vocal style summons the likes of Ann Wilson whenever she sets foot onstage.
Rick Brunermer - Saxophone
In a career spanning 30 years has built a reputation as one of the most soulful and versatile sax players in New Jersey. He’s performed and recorded with National Acts, such as; Bruce Springsteen, Mariah Carey, Stevie Wonder, Michael McDonald, Jon Bon Jovi, Dave Matthews, Tony Bennett and many more. After graduating from University of Miami he began his professional life as an orchestra leader for two years on various cruise ships. Rick is currently in demand as a studio session player where his jingles can be heard nationwide!
Ron Nash - Guitar
Over 30 years of teaching and performing. An experienced creative performer and teacher of a variety of musical styles. Well versed in Blues, Rock, Jazz,and Classical guitar. Comfortable on Stage or in the Studio. Composes and Records in private home studio. . Author of A METHOD for the SERIOUS BEGINNER GUITARIST and The SHAPES OF THINGS series of books. Has played with many of the great musicians from the New Jersey / New York area.
Montana Gogan - Vocals
Montana is a rising star in NJ’s music scene and at Rockshop. Her versatile vocal style ranges from Rock to Pop to Broadway. Check out her band The Original Copy and see her rock the mic!