The Academy of Music is Hampton Roads’ only independent non-profit community music school that is accredited by the National Guild of Community Schools of the Arts. Our mission is to provide the joys and benefits of learning music to the residents of Hampton Roads, regardless of their ability to pay.
Founded in 1991, The Academy of Music offers private and group instruction for most instruments and voice. Our instructors are highly trained professionals and include members of the Virginia Symphony, Virginia Chorale and other leading ensembles. The Academy’s offerings, designed for all ages and skill levels, are:
Academy Studies with programs conducted at various sites: Ghent United Methodist Church, First United Methodist Church , Royster Memorial Presbyterian Church and Talbot Park Baptist Church in Norfolk; Monumental Untied Methodist Church in Portsmouth; St. John’s Episcopal Church in Hampton; Bayside Presbyterian, Emmanuel Episcopal Church and Providence Presbyterian Church in Virginia Beach.
Community Outreach programs, conducted in partnership with other institutions, such as our music program at Park Place School, our Band Together Program, and Harps on Fire, all in Norfolk.
In addition to our outreach programs, The Academy provides funding for students enrolled in private study who could not otherwise afford music lessons. This year, about 30% of our students will receive music instruction at little or no cost to their families through partial or full scholarships.
In 2000, The Academy of Music was fully certified by the National Guild of Community Schools of the Arts after meeting its rigorous evaluation criteria. The Guild provides leadership and advocacy for some 300 schools of the arts across the country, sets quality standards and promotes public awareness of the value of arts education.