A. We differ from in-home lessons in that teaching is a professional occupation for our teachers, not a part time hobby. Lessons are taught in a safe, school environment free from the many distractions commonplace in the home. Students have the opportunity to not only learn their instruments/disciplines, but to participate in and become part of the school community and build lasting relationships. Students have the opportunity to attend and/or perform in regular recitals and festivals held in professional auditoriums and earn recognition and trophy awards. As for other music and dance schools, we can only comment on what we offer and that we offer one of the most extensive programs available with extremely qualified and personable faculty and staff.

A. All of our music teachers minimally hold a Bachelor of Music degree and all of our dance instructors hold either a B.F.A. degree in dance, equivalent professional certificate (such as Dance Masters), or have comparable professional experience. Our teachers are all experienced educators and chosen not only for their qualifications, but for their ability to inspire and motivate our students. All instructor and staff candidates at LAAPA are screened through TalentWise and Intelius.

A. This is one of the advantages of studying with LAAPA. we have several teachers for each instrumental/vocal/dance program. If a situation arises in which a student needs more motivation, we are able to switch the student over to one of the other teachers. Sometimes our students needs a different teaching style, and we do have the flexibility to change instructors to accomplish this.

A. Absolutely! We have many adult students that study with us each week. We are happy to teach adult students at any level from beginning to advanced. Lessons are provided in a fun, low pressure environment. Our adult students simply aren't as eager as our younger students to be on camera! Additional information on programs for adults may be found by clicking here.

A. He/she can try another instrument or program! Students are free at any time to switch over to another program. It is our goal to place the student in a program suited specifically for their success and joy.

A. Participation in our recitals is always optional but certainly highly encouraged. New students are encouraged to come and watch the performances so that they have a better idea of what it will be like when they are ready to get up on stage!

A. For music, Yes - we have an open door policy. It is your choice when to sit in. Some students find it distracting and some work better with Mom or Dad in the room. The teacher will give you some advice on this after they get to know your child. For dance, due to limited space in our studio, classes may be monitored from our waiting room on our closed circuit television system.

A. Although a real (acoustic) piano is always best, it is not necessary to begin lessons. The majority of students begin with a keyboards and once they decide they like it, then you can consider renting of purchasing an acoustic or digital piano. The most important thing to know when renting or purchasing a keyboard is that it must have full sized keys (each individual key should be the same size and an individual piano key) and it must be touch sensitive (if you hit the key hard, it makes a loud sound, if you hit it softly, it makes a soft sound). It is best to get a keyboard with at least 60+ keys so that the student does not outgrow it too quickly (a regular piano has 88 keys). Whenever possible, a weighted action is preferred to a semi-weighted or non-weighted action so that students can practice on an instrument that closely resembles the feel of the piano.

Watch a Video about what you need to get started!

A. The most important requirement is for it to have full sized keys (each individual key should be the same size as a real piano's key). It does not need to have all 88 keys that a real piano does. We recommend a minimum of 61 keys, especially if you are purchasing, so that you will be able to use it for a longer period of time. The other very important factor is touch sensitive keys (see above).

Watch our Video on Choosing a Digital Piano!

A. We are happy to host field trips for preschools, boy scouts, girl scouts, and other groups completely free of charge. For scheduling and additional information, please contact Wanda Cullen, Assistant Director at extension 305 when calling.