BRIAN MCGUINNESS (PINE ISLAND)
Drum Instructor
Brian has been passionate about drumming for over four decades, a journey that has brought him endless joy, challenge, and personal growth as both a musician and a human being. From forming his own bands to working as a session and touring drummer, he has performed on iconic stages like CBGB and NY Giants Stadium—along with plenty of beloved local dive bars along the way.
As a multi-instrumentalist and producer, Brian brings a well-rounded approach to drum set studies, with a strong focus on musicality and song structure. His playing blends modern hybrid drumming, rock, jazz-inspired four-limb independence, and advanced multi-pedal techniques. At the core of it all is a deep, all-encompassing love of music that shapes everything he does.
JOHN REDDAN (PINE ISLAND)
Guitar & Bass Instructor
Born in the Rolling Hills of Warwick, New York, John Reddan was highly influenced by blues and classic rock music throughout his upbringing. John started playing the guitar at the age of nine, consistently trying to hone his skills. Over the years, he has had many great opportunities to work and play with some of the best musicians that music has to offer. Around 2001, John met international blues musician, Bill Perry. Perry, long running guitarist with Richie Havens, encouraged John to come on stage and play. After playing together one time, Perry asked John if he would be interested in playing guitar with the Bill Perry Blues Band. Soon after, John had become a mainstay having played with Perry for Six years. Some notable performances with Bill would include The Jimiway Blues Festival in Poland, New Morning Club in Paris, The New York State Blues Festival, and opening up for Bo Diddley at Stewart International Airport. They would play across the world bringing Bill Perry’s high-energy psychedelic blues to the people. John also played guitar on three of Bill’s records. After Bill Perry’s passing in 2007, John teamed up with his drummer brother, Chris, forming the Reddan Brothers Band in 2008. They produced and recorded twelve original songs written by John. Their album opened up many opportunities to play at various Festivals. The Reddan Brothers were honored to open for Levon Helm himself at both Bodles Opera House and at Levon Helm’s Midnight Ramble. John has also shared the stage with guitarist Jimmy Vivino of The Conan O’Brien Show, James Cotton guitarist Slam Allen, Little Sammy Davis of The Levon Helm Band, and Nighthawk’s founder and guitarist extraordinaire Jimmy Thackery. Since 2012, John has been performing solo acoustic gigs throughout the New York tri-state area. As of 2015, he is also now a Member of the New York State Blues Hall of Fame. As of 2020 John has been Focused on Playing and Recording as much as possible as a freelance musician with many different projects though-out the Hudson valley and elsewhere. In 2023 John began teaching at the Rock Underground, offering students the opportunity to expand their own paths though Music Education.
MILO AHENAKEW (PINE ISLAND)
Guitar & Bass Instructor
Milo began playing and studying guitar at the age of 14. He graduated with a Bachelor of Music in Guitar with a Minor in Audio Production from Musicians Institute (MI) and has done work in Post Production Audio and Live Sound. He has played guitar in several bands from the Tri-state area (NY, NJ & CT) as well as in Southern California. Milo is a well-rounded musician with a background in different genres such as Rock, Blues, Metal, R&B, Folk, Jazz, Fusion, Funk, and Country.
As a teacher, Milo has instructed students of various age ranges and skill levels. Milo is well versed in the application of music theory, ear training, reading, and playing technique to supplement the needs and wants of his students. He believes in putting the student first and supplies them with the skills necessary to reach their goals.
TERRY MCDONOUGH (PINE ISLAND)
Piano Instructor
Terry holds a Bachelor Degree of music from Penn State university where he majored in music theory and composition. He has been performing with the local band “Tangent” for 15 years as well as playing solo around the area. Terry possesses a large song repertoire and the ability to improvise. He is an asset and a great source of information to the students he works with.