About Us
Helping You Make Music Since 1999
At Rocket Music School, we’ve been inspiring musicians of all ages for over two decades. What started in the late ’90s with Joe Bailey teaching guitar in Gravesend has grown into a vibrant, multi-instrument music school.
Formerly known as Kent Guitar School, we became the go-to place for guitar lessons in Gravesend, Meopham, Longfield, and Maidstone. Now, as Rocket Music School, we offer expert tuition in guitar, piano, drums, and singing from our two sites in Meopham and Ticehurst—plus a thriving online school.
Our approach? Fun, engaging lessons with clear structure—so you always know where you’re heading.
Whether you’re starting from scratch, brushing up your skills, or aiming for a grade, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. We use our own teaching resources alongside Rockschool (RSL) grades in guitar, piano, drums, bass, and vocals—covering everything from reading music and theory to improvisation and ear training.
Meet The Team
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Joe Bailey
Director/ Guitar Tutor (Meopham & Ticehurst School)
Hi, I’m Joe Bailey! I am a guitar tutor as well as teaching drums and piano and own Rocket Music School. and I’ve been teaching guitar since the late 1990s. While my foundation is in classical training, my true passion lies in blues, rock, metal, jazz, and folk. Over the years, it’s been my mission to share the joy of music with others and help them experience all the benefits that learning an instrument can bring.
I’ve had the privilege of working with a wide range of students—from young children and adult beginners learning their first songs, to advanced and professional musicians refining their licks, songwriting, and improvisation skills. This journey has taken place through our music schools, which began as Kent Guitar School and later evolved into Rocket Music School, expanding to offer lessons in multiple instruments as well as working in schools across Kent and Sussex.
At Rocket Music, we believe in using proven teaching methods while always treating each student as an individual. We tailor our lessons to match every learner’s unique goals, style, and pace—whether they’re aiming for the stage or simply want to play for fun. Teaching and training are just part of what we do—we’re also here to mentor and guide each student on their musical journey.
We love what we do at Rocket Music and can’t wait to welcome you to one of our intro lessons!
Stephen Barlow
Guitar Tutor (Online)
Hi, I'm Stephen Barlow! My teaching philosophy is rooted in inspiration and individuality. I believe that the fastest, most fulfilling progress happens when students are excited about the music they’re playing. That’s why from day one, my lessons are tailored around the music you love — while also setting short-term, achievable goals to help you grow quickly and confidently on the instrument.
Having gone through the musical grade system myself, I understand its value — but I also recognize that no two students are the same. Whether you're aiming to pass exams, master a particular style, or just want to jam for fun, I adapt each lesson to fit your goals and learning style.
Improvisation has always fascinated me — that feeling when the guitar becomes an extension of your voice. I’m especially drawn to styles where improvisation plays a central role, like blues and jazz. Some of my biggest influences include B.B. King, Jimi Hendrix, Grant Green, and Barney Kessel — true masters of expressive, spontaneous playing.
Above all, I strive to create a relaxed, encouraging environment where learning the guitar is as enjoyable as it is rewarding. We'll explore, grow, and uncover new musical inspirations together — because music should always be something you love. I look forward to meeting you and learning together!
Ben Morgan-Jones
Drum & Guitar Tutor (Ticehurst School)
Hi, I'm Ben Morgan-Jones! I’m a music teacher helping students on both drums and guitar, working with folks of all ages to help them find their groove or strum their first chords.
On drums, I’ve coached everyone from kids just starting out to advanced players refining their craft, while on guitar, I focus on getting students comfortable with chords, scales and playing along to tracks. Whether in one-on-one lessons or group jams, I love creating a relaxed atmosphere where students feel free to experiment, build confidence and have fun while learning their instrument.
My teaching style is all about utilising technique whilst letting each student’s personality shine through. For drums, I blend rudiments and coordination drills with improvisational and genre-specific grooves; for guitar, I emphasise foundational chords, strumming patterns and easy riffs to get students playing songs they love fast.
My own background playing drums in (not limited to) rock, jazz, and funk bands, plus creating music using the guitar, gives me real-world experience to share—whether it’s stage tips or studio tricks. I’m into all kinds of rock, progressive metal, jazz fusion, hip-hop, electronica and world rhythms.
I draw inspiration from drummers like John Bonham for his raw energy, Neil Peart for his experimentalism and Tony Williams for his jazzy flair, while guitarists like Jimi Hendrix and David Gilmour spark my love for soulful, expressive playing.
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George Jones
Guitar Tutor (Meopham School)
Hi, I’m George Jones! I’ve been playing guitar since 2016 and have built up experience in performing, recording, and songwriting across a range of styles. I hold a First Class BA (Hons) degree in Commercial Music from Canterbury Christ Church University and am currently studying for a Master’s in Music, specialising in instrumental teaching and music education for special educational needs.
While my journey began with rock and pop—Roy Orbison being one of my earliest inspirations—my musical tastes have since expanded to include jazz, classical Spanish/Latin guitar, and folk styles such as country, Celtic, and bluegrass. I love music that feels natural and expressive, and that spirit guides how I play and teach.
Over the years, I’ve taught guitar to children, teens, and adults, both one-to-one and in groups. Alongside my academic studies, I’ve developed a deep understanding of effective, inclusive teaching methods. I offer lessons in guitar, bass guitar, and even ukulele, all tailored to suit each student’s interests, goals, and learning style.
Whether you’re a complete beginner, preparing for a grade exam, tackling music theory, or looking to expand your skills, I’m here to help. I work hard to create a supportive, positive learning environment where you can feel confident and motivated to progress at your own pace.
Above all, I believe music is a powerful and enjoyable way to express yourself and connect with others. Whatever challenges you face in your musical journey, I’ll be right there to guide and support you.
I look forward to meeting you and helping you discover your potential. Let’s make music together!
Brooke Roostan
Piano Tutor (Meopham School)
Hello, I'm Brooke Roostan – a classically trained pianist with a deep passion for both performance and teaching. I hold Grade 8 in Piano and Music Theory, a First-Class Honours Bachelor of Arts in Music, and I’m currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Music, specialising in Music Psychology.
I’ve been teaching piano for over six years, working with both children and adults at all stages of their musical journey. Whether you're a complete beginner, preparing for grades, or looking to rekindle your love for the piano, I tailor my lessons to suit each student’s goals and interests.
Throughout my undergraduate studies, I performed regularly, with highlights including a solo performance of the second movement from Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in my final year – a piece that remains close to my heart. Performance has always been a central part of my musical identity, and I enjoy helping students discover the same confidence and joy on stage.
In parallel to teaching and performing, my academic focus is music psychology. I research areas such as musical learning, music and emotion, and music therapy – all of which inform and enrich my approach to teaching. Understanding how people connect with music on a deeper level helps me create a thoughtful, encouraging, and responsive learning environment.
Above all, I believe that music should be a meaningful and enjoyable experience – and I aim to bring that into every lesson.
Joel Sealy
Drum, Guitar & Singing Tutor (Meopham School)
Hi, I’m Joel Sealy! With over 20 years behind the kit, including touring, recording, and gigging across many genres, from Pop, Rock to Reggaeton.. I bring real-world passion to every lesson. But my true calling is ‘Empowering students to feel like winners!’
I specialise in adapting drum education for ‘all abilities,’ including tailored support for SEN learners, where patience and creative communication unlock confidence and achievement. Whether you’re a total beginner finding your first groove or an advanced player looking for another approach, I design lessons around Your goals: nailing grade exams, playing your favourite songs, or building the stamina to tour like the pros.
My approach blends ‘bulletproof fundamentals’ (technique, reading, groove vocabulary) with the joy of playing music that matters to you. Having lived the journey… from studio sessions to festival stages like, ‘The Victorious Festival,’ I share practical insights on performance, recording, and the mental resilience it takes to thrive on this rhythmical journey. I believe progress isn’t just measured in beats… it’s in smiles, breakthroughs, and students leaving each lesson thinking: “I can do this!” Let’s build your skills, your confidence, and your unique expression… one win at a time.
Kye Phillips
Drum & Guitar Tutor (Ticehurst School)
Hi I'm Kye Phillips I am a drum tutor. I have been playing drums for 10 years now. In the last 4 years have been playing professionally live with my band Cabiria and doing session work for artist such as Serena Sun and Pascagoula, I play number of genres such as, Funk, Metal, Soul, Acid Jazz and Jazz Fusion.
My favourite drummers are Steve Judd, Akira Jimbo, David garibaldi, Dennis Chambers and Abe Cunningham. I have also just finished my degree at university with a First Class Honours at The Academy Of Contemporary Music at London in Music Performance.
I love teaching and sharing my passion of the drums with people of all experience levels and ages. In my lessons I aim to work according to your needs and level on the instrument so we can get the most out of the learning experience. I strive for a fun learning environment with lots of encouragement and enthusiasm. It's important to understand and appreciate your progress as a musician too and this is something I encourage greatly.
Bradley Scarff
Piano Tutor (Ticehurst School)
Hi, I’m Brad! I’m a pianist and piano teacher with a Bachelor’s degree in Piano Performance and 10 years of experience playing the piano. I teach students of all levels, from complete beginners through to advanced pianists.
My lessons focus on building strong musical foundations from the very beginning — developing good technique, learning to read music confidently, and understanding how and why different sounds work together. Most importantly, I want lessons to be fun, relaxed and pressure-free, while helping students develop a genuine enthusiasm for music.
I’m principally a classical pianist, but I enjoy teaching a wide variety of styles, including classical, jazz, pop and musical theatre, and encouraging students to explore the music they enjoy.
I have performed at venues including Heart Headingley Centre and The Attic by Seagulls, and was awarded Second Prize in the Besbrode Piano Competition.
Paras Chodha
Drum Tutor (Meopham School)
Hi I’m Paras Chodha! I'm a drummer and musician with over six years of recording and live performance experience, spanning everything from heavy metal to jazz. I have also achieved Grade 8 in drums, giving me a strong technical and musical foundation.
As a drum teacher, I work with beginners to build their skills, confidence and understanding of music, helping them develop their own individual approach to playing. My teaching combines focused, challenging lessons with a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere.
Learning the drums has had a huge impact on my life, and it is my goal as your teacher to help you discover the same passion that made me fall in love with this instrument.
Elliot Smart
Guitar Tutor (Meopham School)
Hi, I'm Elliot Smart.I've been playing guitar for over 20 years, having started lessons at the age of 13. I studied Music Performance at K College Tonbridge and North Kent College Dartford before completing a BA (Hons) in Commercial Music and Performance at Canterbury Christ Church University, graduating in 2016.
My musical background is rooted in Rock and Metal, but over the years I've developed a broad interest in many different styles, including Pop, Blues, Jazz, Folk and Latin music. My influences include guitarists such as Brian May, Eddie Van Halen, Gary Moore, Robben Ford, Larry Carlton, Tommy Emmanuel and Andy McKee.
Since graduating, I've continued to perform regularly. I currently perform as a solo fingerstyle acoustic guitarist, arranging well-known songs as instrumental pieces for gigs, dinner events, private functions and weddings. I also perform regularly as part of an acoustic covers duo.
I enjoy helping people discover the guitar and develop their confidence, whether they're completely new to the instrument, learning for fun, looking to improve their technique, or wanting to develop their understanding of music theory and performance.
My aim is to create a relaxed and enjoyable environment where students can build their skills, stay motivated and work towards their own musical goals.
Ravinder Chana
Guitar Tutor (Meopham School)
I’m Rav Chana — a guitarist and qualified music teacher with 20 years of teaching experience. I’ve always enjoyed helping students develop their playing in a way that feels musical, enjoyable and connected to their own interests and goals.
I teach classical, acoustic and electric guitar, covering a wide range of styles, including rock, pop and blues. I work with complete beginners through to more experienced players, adapting my teaching to suit each student’s experience and ability. At every level, I focus on developing good technique and musicianship while helping students build a broader range of playing skills.
Learning guitar is about much more than simply playing the right notes. It’s about understanding the instrument, developing your own musical voice and enjoying the sense of progress that comes from becoming a more confident player. Whether you’re picking up a guitar for the first time or looking to take your playing further, I aim to make learning engaging, rewarding and inspiring.