Business Details
48 Years
experience
Music, Dance & Drama Lessons for All Ages in Louisiana
Our studio, firmly established in the River Ridge area since 1978, has been honored to serve countless Jefferson Parish families with an extensive educational curriculum, a varied and expert faculty, and advanced facilities. One of our most rewarding achievements is witnessing the continued musical and dance growth within families, now teaching the offspring and grandchildren of students from the early 1980s.Our instructors are all university-educated professionals who genuinely enjoy guiding students regardless of their age or experience level. Whether embarking on a new path or continuing training, students will find a supportive and inclusive atmosphere here. Unlike traditional lessons that often limit students to classical repertoires, our philosophy encourages pursuing the styles and genres that excite the individual. While foundational skills are emphasized, motivating students by focusing on music they love is central to our success.
Services
Piano Lessons
Guitar Lessons
Dance Classes
Voice Training
Acting Workshops
Summer Camps
Online Lessons
Recital Preparation
Ensemble Programs
Early Childhood Music
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of excellence in arts education with 60+ professional instructors
- Customized programs for toddlers through adults in music, dance, and drama
- Flexible scheduling with no long-term contracts
- Family-friendly environment with performance opportunities
- State-of-the-art facilities featuring professional dance floors and recording studios
Associations and certifications
- Music Teachers National Association
- Music Academy Network
Payment methods
- Cash
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
What people say
Patient instructors
Fun environment
Confidence building
Professional facilities
Flexible scheduling
Services
Piano Lessons
LAAPAs piano program provides individualized instruction in 30, 45, or 60-minute weekly sessions for students at all skill levels. From classical to pop and jazz, our teachers develop personalized lesson plans to match your musical preferences. Enrich your learning with optional group theory and performance opportunities throughout the year.
Guitar Lessons
Our guitar program includes weekly private instruction and access to complimentary enrichment labs that cover theory, songwriting, and more. Students as young as six can begin on acoustic or electric guitar, and even younger students can start on ukulele. Instructors customize lesson plans using student input and preferred styles. Our goal is to build confidence and musical skills in every session.
Voice Lessons
Students in our Voice Lessons program develop strong vocal skills through customized instruction focusing on breath support, pitch accuracy, and stage presence. Lessons are designed for all ages and levels, with careful consideration given to vocal maturity. Additional weekly enrichment classes offer a collaborative and enjoyable learning environment. Were committed to helping every student thrive.
Ballet Classes
Our ballet classes welcome students ages four through adult, offering training from beginner to advanced levels. With a focus on technique, alignment, and musicality, we build each dancers foundation while nurturing creativity and discipline. Classes are held weekly at convenient times and culminate in inspiring performances. Enrollment is available year-round both online and in person.
Hip Hop Classes
Hip Hop Classes at LAAPA blend upbeat choreography with foundational technique to prepare students for performance and personal growth. Each level builds on the last, challenging dancers with new skills while reinforcing core movements. We ensure every student trains with music and routines appropriate to their age, promoting a safe and exciting dance journey.
People
Wanda Cullen
Director Emeritus
Founder of LAAPA in 1978, Wanda Cullen established the academy's commitment to accessible arts education. Her vision created three campus locations and a faculty of 60+ instructors. She continues to influence curriculum development while mentoring new generations of performing arts educators.
Dr. Vera
Piano Instructor
Doctorate-level piano educator specializing in classical and contemporary techniques. Dr. Vera tailors lessons to individual learning styles while emphasizing music theory fundamentals. She prepares students for competitions and college auditions, with a track record of producing award-winning young musicians.
Megan
Dance Teacher
Certified dance instructor with expertise in ballet and contemporary styles. Megan creates inclusive environments for shy students while maintaining technical rigor. She choreographs annual recital pieces and leads strength conditioning classes that complement dance training.
Questions
What age can children start music lessons?
Piano and voice lessons begin at age 5, guitar at 7, and violin at 4. Toddler music classes start at 18 months through parent-tot programs focusing on rhythm and basic instrument exploration.
Do you offer dance classes for adults?
Yes, we provide adult ballet, tap, hip-hop, and contemporary classes for beginners through advanced students with flexible scheduling options for working professionals.
Are performances mandatory for dance students?
Stage performances are strongly encouraged but not required. Our June recital and December showcase allow students to demonstrate progress while maintaining low-pressure educational focus.
What qualifications do your instructors have?
All faculty hold university degrees in their specialty or have equivalent professional experience. Dance instructors have university training, while music teachers include industry professionals with performance backgrounds.
Can I try a class before enrolling?
We offer trial lessons in most disciplines. Contact our office to schedule a sample session with an instructor matching your preferred style and availability.
Videos
Reviews (12)
M. Marie
May 17, 2025
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Jade has attended class with Karissa for the past two years and she always looks forward to dance day! Karissa is a wonderful dance teacher! I would recommend attending dance lessons with this teacher!
Ethan DeFrisco
May 16, 2025
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My experience at LAAPA has been very good. I take singing lessons with Allison Newton, and I feel I have made significant improvement in my singing technique. She is able to explain complex terms and techniques in a way that is more relatable and easy to understand. I started taking lessons at LAAPA to get better at singing and writing original songs. Mrs. Allison does a great job of helping me accomplish my goals. Overall, my experience has been wonderful, and if you are looking for singing lessons, I would highly recommend Mrs. Allison.
Hui P.
May 16, 2025
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Miss Karissa has been teaching my daughter since she was 20 months old. She is now 4 and still with Miss Karissa because she is so animated and able to hold their interest. Karissa goes above and beyond for her students. She is the best.
Nicole Bauer
May 16, 2025
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I love my ballet lessons at LAAPA with Ms. Adrienne and Ms. Karissa, as well as voice/piano with Ms. Alicia. They each make learning fun! -Alannah B.
Nha Schiro
May 13, 2025
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We absolutely LOVE Mr. Riccardo and cant thank him enough for all hes done. He is truly an asset to the music community, and every student should have a Riccardo. Our son genuinely looks forward to his piano lessons every week, and weve seen significant progress in such a short time.
S. B.
May 06, 2025
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Claire absolutely LOVES working with her vocal coach Allison N! She has helped her improve so much! Thank you Allison!!
Karen Diaz
May 04, 2025
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Rshanda Yates is very patient and encouraging. She is punctual, very professional , knowledgeable. We highly recommend her for pianno lessons. My daughter looks forward for her Saturdays lesson. Thank you
Jaime Macaluso
Sep 06, 2024
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Started taking adult ballet with Bridget a few weeks ago and Im loving it! Shes very patient with beginners and does a great job of explaining things but not holding back the rest of the class while she does so. Excited for next week already!
Lauren Ayala
Jun 06, 2024
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I have Mr Thomas and his passion for music is truly inspiring, and his dedication to teaching is greatly appreciated. His teaching techniques are so effective and really help me improve my skills. I appreciate the way he breaks down complex concepts into manageable steps. Thank you for being such a great teacher! Ive learned so much in such little time.
Kerneisha Murphy
May 20, 2024
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The teachers, and staff at LAAPA are all amazing and provide such a nurturing environment for children of all ages to grow in their love for music and dance. My 4 -year-old son started drum lessons this year and loves his teacher Mr. Sean! This is a new experience for my son. His teacher is so patient with him and tailors the lesson to suit his attention span and capabilities. I greatly appreciate his patience and I am excited to see my son grow in his love for music at LAAPA.
Dreux Blalock
Sep 16, 2019
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Even though its been 25 years since I stepped through the doors, River Ridge School of Music & Dance still gives me the feel of being part of a family.
Having Mr. Russel as my teacher after all these years makes it that much better. Its like I never left! He has proven that his teaching style is perfect for a budding young child as I was at 6 years old just starting to a middle aged man becoming acquainted with the piano once more. I look forward to my lesson every week not just for the education but the camaraderie that we share.
Having Mr. Russel as my teacher after all these years makes it that much better. Its like I never left! He has proven that his teaching style is perfect for a budding young child as I was at 6 years old just starting to a middle aged man becoming acquainted with the piano once more. I look forward to my lesson every week not just for the education but the camaraderie that we share.
Alex Donez
Oct 04, 2018
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My daughter has been taking ballet lessons here for a little over 1 year. Mrs. Mary is very thorough, patient, caring, and knowledgeable. A true professional. LAAPA is great at keeping us informed with important information through email about rehearsals, schedules, and holiday closures. Highly recommend the school to anybody looking for a great place for their kid to learn dance.