ABOUT US
Founder/ Owners/ Administrators
Nikhil Rao (known to his friends as Niko) is an award winning multi-instrumentalist whose work in the private music industry, community development, and distribution systems has spanned the commercial and creative fields over the last twenty years.
Niko’s work is showcased in permanent exhibits at the Brooklyn museum, used in promotional materials, and featured regularly in his career as a touring musician. His last 7 years in private music management draws upon his extensive history, dedication, and knowledge of all facets of the music industry and led him to more than double revenue, profit, and retention at one of DC’s most respected private music lesson hubs.
His success in the field led Niko to realize his vision of establishing a touchtone of the local DMV music community, carrying on the positive, and productive, momentum of his proven track record.
Rohit Rao is an accomplished drummer with a deep passion for sharing the joy of music. Known for his special ability to connect with people of all ages, Rohit has a gift for making children feel comfortable, inspired, and excited to learn.
Recognizing the power of music to transform lives, Rohit decided to join his brother Nikhil’s vision and passion for building a community-centered music school. As a Partner, Rohit has played a key role in shaping an environment where creativity thrives and students feel both supported and challenged.
Antonio Peluso – Director of Marketing & Operations
Antonio is a storyteller, strategist, and lifelong musician who thrives on building creative communities. Before joining TMS, he spent eight years leading marketing and communications for an international nonprofit, crafting global campaigns that championed Indigenous rights and rainforest conservation.
With a background in cultural anthropology, Antonio knows how to connect people to powerful stories—whether introducing the world to remote Amazonian communities or inspiring a neighbor to pick up an instrument. A performing and studio drummer rooted in DC’s music scene, he brings the same creativity and energy from the stage into his marketing work, growing TMS’s reach, strengthening its brand, and helping our community make more music together.
Together, Rohit and Nikhil have created a vibrant school, filled with talented teachers who share their dedication to music education. Under their leadership, the school has become a place where students not only develop their skills but also discover a lifelong love for music.
