Andrew Walen, a magna cum laude graduate from Berklee College of Music ('95), seamlessly blends his extensive music industry experience with his passion for education at the School of Rock in Pikesville, Maryland. His journey began with internships at top management companies for Aerosmith and Pat Metheny, taking him from Boston to Nashville where he thrived as a singer/songwriter and guitarist. Known for his performances in the iconic Lower Broadway clubs, Andrew released several CDs and had his songs recorded by artists across various genres, including children's music, R&B, rock, and country.
Andrew later shifted his talents to music journalism, writing for both local and national publications. His most challenging and rewarding role, however, came as a stay-at-home father to his son George, who required special medical care. Seeking stability for his family, Andrew earned a degree in social work from the University of Tennessee and built a successful 20-year career as a psychotherapist and mental health executive in Nashville and Baltimore.
In 2021, Andrew retired from corporate work to support George through the emotional and physical challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. Once the crisis passed, Andrew felt drawn back to his first love: music. He opened School of Rock Pikesville, where he combines his deep industry knowledge and therapeutic skills to inspire and mentor the next generation of musicians. Andrew continues to write, record, and perform in the Baltimore and DC areas, nurturing his enduring love for music while fostering a vibrant community of young rockers.