What if your child could learn piano, voice, and performance skills all in one place, while having the time of their life? Traditional music lessons often feel disconnected from real-world application, leaving kids practicing scales and exercises without understanding why. At Asheville Performing Arts Academy, we've revolutionized music education by combining musical instruction with the magic of theater. Our integrated approach doesn't just teach your child to play music—it teaches them to perform music with confidence, emotion, and purpose.

Located in the heart of Asheville's vibrant arts scene, APAA provides the perfect environment for young musicians to flourish. Our students don't just learn notes on a page; they discover how music becomes the heartbeat of storytelling, connecting with audiences and expressing themselves authentically through song.

Why Choose Musical Theater-Based Music Education?

Traditional music lessons focus on technical proficiency, but our musical theater approach develops the whole performer. When children learn music through storytelling and character, they develop multiple skills simultaneously. Voice lessons become character exploration. Piano practice transforms into accompaniment for dramatic scenes. Music theory comes alive through the songs that bring beloved characters to life.

This integrated method creates well-rounded "triple threat" performers who are comfortable with music in any context. More importantly, it makes learning engaging and meaningful. Instead of struggling through method books, your child will eagerly practice songs from shows they love, developing the same technical skills while having genuine fun.

The confidence gained from this approach extends far beyond the stage. Children who learn to perform music learn to communicate effectively, present themselves with poise, and collaborate successfully with others—skills that serve them throughout their lives.

Our Music Programs for Kids

The Prep Program (Ages 6-12)

Our foundational program introduces young musicians to the integrated world of musical theater. Students attend classes twice weekly, where music instruction is seamlessly woven together with acting and dance. Rather than sitting at a piano for an hour, your child might spend time learning a song, exploring the character who sings it, and then performing it with movement and expression.

Weekly music classes focus on:

• Fundamental piano and keyboard skills
• Age-appropriate voice development
• Music reading and basic theory
• Ensemble singing and harmony
• Song interpretation and performance

The Prep Program culminates in two full productions per year, giving students real performance experience. These aren't simple recitals—they're fully staged productions where your child's musical skills shine as part of a complete theatrical experience.

The Company Program (Ages 12-18)

Our pre-professional conservatory program takes serious young musicians to the next level. Company students receive intensive training that prepares them for high school and college auditions, while developing the advanced skills needed for professional performance.

Advanced music training includes:

• Classical and contemporary vocal technique
• Advanced piano and music theory
• Solo and ensemble performance
• Audition preparation and repertoire building
• Music direction and leadership skills

Company students participate in our nationally recognized competition team, attending the Junior Theatre Festival where they perform alongside thousands of other young artists from across the country. Many of our alumni have gone on to study at prestigious conservatory programs and work professionally in musical theater.

Community Shows (All Ages)

For families seeking a flexible introduction to our approach, Community Shows offer project-based musical learning. Students commit to individual productions, learning music through the rehearsal process while working toward a performance goal.

These productions welcome beginners alongside more experienced students, creating mentorship opportunities and building the supportive community that defines APAA. Your child will learn music in context, understanding how their individual contribution supports the larger artistic vision.

Meet Our Music Faculty

Kurt Campbell brings a unique combination of education and professional theater experience to APAA. As a 4th-grade teacher at Rainbow Community School, Kurt understands how children learn best, while his extensive musical direction credits (including Wizard of Oz, Peter Pan, and A Chorus Line) ensure professional-quality instruction. Kurt has been part of the APAA family since 2007, creating a warm, encouraging environment where young musicians thrive.

Connor Dalton represents the full circle of APAA education—he began as a student and has returned as a professional voice teacher with international performance experience. Connor's operatic training (Master of Performance from the Royal College of Music, London) combined with his deep understanding of youth development creates an unparalleled learning environment. His students learn techniques that encompass all musical styles, from classical foundations to contemporary musical theater.

Both instructors prioritize communication and collaboration, creating safe spaces where students can explore both the technical and dramatic aspects of music-making.

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What Makes APAA Different from Other Asheville Music Schools

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While other Asheville music schools focus on classical training or contemporary styles in isolation, APAA integrates musical learning with real-world application. Our students don't just learn to play music—they learn to use music as a tool for storytelling, emotional expression, and human connection.

Our partnership with the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts means your child performs on professional stages with proper lighting, sound, and theatrical support. This isn't a school gymnasium recital—it's a genuine theater experience that prepares students for any performance situation they'll encounter.

Success Stories from Asheville Families

"My children have been involved with the Asheville Performing Arts Academy for more than a decade. Over the years, I have watched them grow in confidence and creativity. They have had fantastic teachers and have made the best of friends. The performances are professional and a joy to watch." - Heather Abernathy, Sr. Director for Advancement, University of Washington

"While several other activities have come and gone in that time, every year we ask her, and every year she makes the choice again to recommit to the APAA experience. Through her own experiences with APAA, I know she has a love for musical theater, and for her theater family, that will serve her and stay with her for a lifetime." - Andrea Rosal

"The confidence he has built and friendships he has formed are life-lasting. Thank you APAA for teaching, nurturing, and inspiring my son and all these young performers every week. It feels wonderful to know my son has found his people." - Holly M.

These stories reflect what makes APAA special: we don't just teach music, we build community. Children find their artistic voice while discovering lifelong friendships with others who share their passion.

Getting Started with Music Lessons at APAA

For Beginning Musicians (Ages 4-8): We recommend starting with our Community Shows to experience the APAA approach. These shorter commitments allow young children to explore musical theater in a low-pressure environment.

For Elementary Students (Ages 6-12): The Prep Program provides the perfect foundation, combining age-appropriate musical instruction with the excitement of full productions.

For Serious Young Musicians (Ages 12-18): Company Program auditions are held annually, accepting students ready for pre-professional training.

Trial Classes Available: We understand that choosing the right musical education for your child is an important decision. Contact us to arrange a trial class where your child can experience our teaching approach firsthand.

Flexible Scheduling: Our programs are designed to work with busy family schedules, offering multiple class times and makeup options when needed.

Asheville's Premier Musical Theater Training Facility

Located at 55 Shiloh Road in Asheville, APAA provides professional-quality instruction in an accessible, nurturing environment. Our partnership with the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts means students experience the same venues where professional touring companies perform.

Asheville's vibrant arts community provides the perfect backdrop for serious musical education. Our students regularly interact with professional artists, attend local performances, and participate in the rich cultural life that makes our city special.

Ready to give your child a musical education that prepares them for the stage and beyond? Contact APAA today to schedule a trial class and discover why families throughout Western North Carolina choose our unique approach to musical learning.

Call (828) 253-4000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Asheville Performing Arts Academy... where the arts come alive!