Reviews of River Ridge School of Music & Dance (Dance School)

Angie Teagle

We’ve been a part of the LAAPA family since January and have enjoyed every minute. The teachers and staff show a lot of patience and kindness when working with my high energy kids. I would recommend LAAPA to anyone.

Krystal Broussard

The staff and teachers are very nice. I love Ms.Kadi who is my daughter's preschool music teacher. The classes are great and my daughter has a great time learning, singing and playing. Even when we miss a class she still remembers the songs and I find it really helped with her learning at home as well.

Gwen McIntosh

My granddaughter is taking tap dancing presently, and she has excelled tremendously. I am anticipating this summer where she will participate in their performing arts class. From the moment I made the first call to the River Ridge School of Music and Dance, I have been pleased. Everyone is extremely professional and pleasant.

Alicia Kiefer

We absolutely adore the pre school music lessons at LAAPA! Ms kadi is wonderful, so patient, and teaches them about ALL KINDS of instruments and music! The class is early in the morning so we get it done and have the rest of our Saturday to do other things.

Joshua Guzman

Thank you Mr. Bill for teaching me guitar lessons. I’m grateful for that. You are the best!

Lauren Rocha

We love River Ridge School of Music. My 8-year old daughter takes piano lessons with Candice Moses. Candice is an excellent teacher and wonderful with children. My daughter has really progressed in the past year and always looks forward to her lesson with Candice. We highly recommend!

Tranese Washington

Both of my kids attend the Hip Hop class here with Ms.Mary. Different age groups same teacher. They love the class. Ms. Mary is very in tune to each dancer. If they miss a class she's there to greet them with "I missed you last class" then she has notes after each class about their improvement or things they need to work on. The staff is also wonderful! So this has been a great experience for my family!!

Meiko Thompson

Bill is an awesome teacher and does a great job with my SUPER active 6yo. Even with a late evening class he always gives my little one 100%!

Tiffanie Lapene

Wonderful school for both music and dance. Excellent, qualified instructors. Comprehensive resources. My 11 yr old takes dance from Ms. Mollie and flute from Mr. Mark. She has such fun in hip hop and class and enjoys the small class size as it makes it easy for her to keep up. Her lessons with Mr. Mark greatly help her with flute and band class at her school. We could not be happier.

Katie Eddins

My children love music lessons and they have learned so much in a short period of time. They came to my husband and I wanting to take drums and guitar. We are so glad we found LAAPA! The very professional instructors make the students feel encouraged and supported at any level.

Rick Thompson

My daughter has been taking tumbling for tots lessons for about 3 months and loves it. Her instructor Audra has been great and is very patient with all of the kids! We would definitely recommend LAAPA.

Ben Kelly

Our daughter, Olivia Kelly has been taking lessons from Mr. Russell for 7 years!! He is the best!!! He knows how to bring out the best in her, he understands her. He is truly fabulous!!!

R Hardee

We have enjoyed having our daughter, Christy, take guitar lessons with Mr. Bill and vocals with Ms. Kadi. Christy has been a student with River Ridge Academy for over 3 years. She continues to progress through their instructions. The teachers adapt easily to the learning styles of their students, making it enjoyable for them to stick with it and progress. We appreciate the positive and encouraging environment Christy walks into every week. Her teachers serve as mentors in the midst of their music lessons. Mr. Bill and Ms. Kadi will keep us involved with our daughter’s growth and where she has to push harder. We are happy to be a part of the school and appreciative for our contact having referred our family to River Ridge Academy.

LeTonya Coleman

My son has only been at LAAPA for 6 weeks and he loves it. The office staff is so helpful and friendly. I was worried that I would have to drag him to class, but he reminds me when it's his day to go. He started with the guitar lessons that were a gift from his grandparents. He then changed to piano. He has enjoyed both instructors and we look forward to him continuing.

Jaime Gurtler

Our daughter loves her ballet class at the River Ridge School of Music and Dance (6-9 yr olds)! Perfect environment for our shy daughter, she has taken to Ms. Mary, her instructor, and blossomed as a little ballerina. Best classes in the New Orleans area, would highly recommend for anybody.

ASHLEIGH WARLITNER

I started taking piano lessons at Laapa Music School nearly a year ago and was placed with Alexandra as my instructor. I would HIGHLY recommend her to anyone who is interested in taking lessons here (especially as a beginner.) She has so much knowledge and passion for music and has been incredibly patient, encouraging and has made me feel as though nothing is out of reach! It has been a lot of time and hard work, but I have loved the process and it's very exciting each week (or every few weeks depending on the song) to hear the progress you've made! Sure, sometimes there are days you don't feel you're at your best but Alexandra is always focusing on the positives and if there is something you aren't getting she shows you what to focus and work on during your at home practice so you flow more easily and by the next we've you've got it! This has been SO helpful for me - it really can make a huge difference in the learning process (at least for me.) I can't say enough good things about Alexandra and Laapa Music School in general. Thank you for such great experience!!

Shannon Wood

LAAPA was recommended to us when we moved here from Virginia and we have not been disappointed. My childrens teachers (Ms. Denise, Ms. Kadi and Ms. Lisa) are wonderful. They are very nurturing but push my kids to go beyond their comfort zones with their instruments to only better themselves. The office staff (Ms. Brianna) is very accommodating with scheduling and always willing to work with our crazy schedules. Very professional teachers and staff. Highly recommend!!

Sandi W

My daughter has been taking harp lessons with Ms. Watson for a year now. Ms. Watson is an amazing teacher, my daughter loves her and has learned so much.

Yulia Murel

My daughter has been taking piano lessons with Mr. Russell for about a year now, and she truly enjoys them. She's made a great progress over the year, and I highly recommend the school!

The crafty Mom

My daughter attends the River Ridge School of Music and Dance. She takes piano lessons with Ms. Katarina and she LOVES it. We can't say enough great things about the teachers, and the staff is incredibly friendly. She gets to play the songs that she likes, and they do a great job of customizing the lesson to fit the student. We have been coming here for nearly three years and look forward to many more!!

Aleicia Donald

Our young daughters have enjoyed working with Mirka. They are beginner piano students and we have been pleased with the growth and progress in the short time that we have been at LAAPA

Lana Lea

I can not say enough great things about LAAPA and the staff, our son looks forward to seeing his teacher Mr. Gary and absolutely loves his piano lessons. There is nobody I recommend more as an instructor for you or your child's musical needs.Than Mr.Gary, Thank you for everything!!

Erin Kenning

My daughter has been taking piano lessons with Mr Daniel for almost 2 years. She was young when she started (had just turned 5) and he was very patient with her as she learned proper hand placement and the basics. He's done a wonderful job of both allowing her personality and creativity "to be" and at the same time teaching her the fundamentals of piano. It's been a joy to watch her develop over time and most importantly, to witness her love for piano. Whenever I check in with her about the activities she's doing, piano (and with Mr Daniel) is the one thing she always insists we keep. He has been wonderful for us.

Alissyn H.

I have been a student at this establishment for 2 months and all I can say is that I wish I had been a student at an academy of this caliber for 20 years! The staff is comprised of friendly supportive open and informative team members on all levels. My drum/percussion instructor, Chris Hochkeppel, is a deeply talented, multidimensional teacher and musician, who in a very brief period of time has me playing 50 measures into a piece that was well beyond my capabilities just a month ago. I am a nontraditional student and a very sloooowwww learner... This Renaissance Man of an instructor just about has me reading time signatures and rhythms (and writing them almost) that were complete esoterica to me mere weeks ago! So, Moms, Dads, kids, seniors, EVERYONE, if your dream is music or dance, this is the place that will provide that skill set, if you are willing to put in the work. My husband is so impressed with my advancement on my instrument that he wants to take lessons as well! Call and schedule a class with Chris H. or any of the great insructors! You will never regret learning to play an instrument or dance. Follow your dreams and your bliss to LAAPA and Mr. Chris!

Darcy Jamison

My four year old has been enrolled in pre ballet for about a month and a half and she absolutely loves it! The facility is great and the faculty and staff are extraordinarily kind! I can't wait for her first recital!

capnkrunch32

My daughter has been attending LAAPA for 6 years. The teachers and staff and very helpful and truly care about their students and progress in music and dance.

Vinoth Murugesan

The School of Music and Dance offers good classes on different Instruments and they do have classes on Vocal. I am learning Drums at the River Ridge school and some of my friends are learning Piano and Guitar... All of us are enjoying our experience to learn an Instrument with the school and our tutors. Tutors here are talented with more than one instruments and they are helpful to make us learn the music on the instrument slow and steady. The classes are separated good so we can learn the instrument without any disturbances with so many active classes around you. I am happy to be part of the learning here and i would recommend it to anyone old or young to learn an instrument with the School of Music and Dance at New Orleans, Louisiana.

Matthew Steel

I’ve been taking my daughter, Olivia, to the River Ridge School of Music and Dance for voice lessons with Kadi once a week for about a month now, and we couldn’t be more happy with how it’s going. Olivia talks about lessons and what she’s learning throughout the week, wanting to practice and review, and really looks forward to her weekly lesson. She’s excited because she can see the progress she’s already making. I’d be happy to recommend the River Ridge School of Music and Dance and Kadi for voice lessons to anyone.

kyla kinter

This is a great school if you have no idea what you’re doing. I’ve been tiptoeing around the world of music since I was a child but they really welcomed me with open arms. Everyone and everything here is wonderful! The front desk ladies are so warm and eager to help, the teachers are educated and full of life, and the facilities themselves are clean and spacious. My teacher Cassie is outgoing and patient and she makes learning the harp fun and easy! She’s always trying different approaches with me to keep my attention and I really appreciate the extra mile. I’ve always been intimidated by my lack of knowledge and the overwhelming amount of possibility with music but my experience here has given me a new outlook and I’m excited for my future in music and my progress really shows

Jeremy Hebert

For starters, I'm a Husband of a wonderful wife and Father of two boys. I had a recent hiccup in life that made me take a look back and realize what I had not accomplished. At 44 years of age, I decided to take up private tap dance lessons and live the dream I first had twenty years ago. That dream is to perform on stage and take my dancing to new heights. I've waited long enough and everyone at LAAPA has made it a wonderful six-star experience. Kudos to the warm receptionist, Courtney, my great dance teacher, Mary, Ryan and all the unseen others who made it all possible.

gary randall

Hello, my name is Gary Randall and I teach voice, piano and guitar at the River Ridge, Covington and Mandeville Schools of Music. I really love teaching at the three locations for the following reasons: The school administration is totally professional, courteous, caring and highly organized. Also, I enjoy the opportunity to teach kids of all ages who love the arts. I've been blessed to be a custodian of the arts along with my fellow educators. Please encourage your friends and family to enroll their kids and themselves in an arts education. It will make our society a much more caring environment.

Brenda Lagarde

My son Pierre has been taking Ukulele classes with Mr. Bill for a couple of months now. We look forward to our weekly lessons! Mr. Bill is so creative with his lessons with my five year old. Great school... Wonderful teacher... Fun experience!

Linda Rhone

Hi my name is Mrs. Linda T. Rhone. I have always wanted to learn how to play a musical instrument, but I thought at age 55 I was too old. I finally mustard up the courage to google a music school close to me, and I found the River Ridge School of Music and Dance. I enrolled April 21, 2017 for only thirty minutes once a week. The instrument I always wanted to learn how to play was the violin. I thought it was a complicated instrument to learn until I met my teacher, Ms. Denise. Her warm gentle smile and calm demeanor put my fears and insecurities to rest. She is patient, kind, encouraging, and inspiring. She is very knowledgeable in her area of study. No question concerning the violin or music in general is off limits. With God's help and Ms. Denise's willingness to share her gift of music, my fantasy of playing the violin became a reality. I'm gaining confidence in each lesson. I can actually play the melodious sounds of "Amazing Grace" and "Simple Gifts!" I encourage anyone who has dreamed of playing a musical instrument to give River Ridge School of Music and Dance a call. The receptionists are welcoming and the instructors are professionals who are experienced and willing to share their talents. "Make the Impossible Possible!"

Alex Gorman

Mrs. Lisa has been such a blessing to share the beauty of piano with our son. He loves Mrs. Lisa and she is a great teacher. She is kind and patient. She has picked some beautiful peices that he has played in few concerts.He has learned so much and LOVES piano!

Brandi Plaisance

My 6 year old daughter recently expressed interest in learning to play the piano, and she started classes with Ms. Gracie a few months ago. I thought this might be a fleeting interest, but with each week, my daughter not only looks forward to her weekly class, but she counts down the days. Ms. Gracie has taught her so much in such a brief period of time, and simultaneously makes it a fun experience for her. This is the perfect combination to maintain my little girl’s ongoing interest. I couldn’t be more pleased!

Julie Gelpi

My daughter had been taking piano lessons with Ms. Denise for over 3 years. Her experience has been extremely positive. She always leaves the lesson in a good mood and excited about new songs she is learning to play for the recital.

Kathleen Harrison

My 7 year old daughter looks forward to her piano lesson with Miss Hannah all week! Miss Hannah has a great rapport with the kids, and is an effective teacher. My daughter has learned a lot very quickly. We love it there!

Brianne Oxenrider

My kids had a great time at LAAPA Summer Camp. They attended for 1 week, and learned ukulele, piano, violin, drums, dance, theater, and voice. The performance at the end was fantastic. We will definitely do it again next year.

c1peewee

Its a beautiful school my son learned VSO much since being there and the staff is really caring and not just once anytime I called or went in as well and they motivate your their students rather they be grown or Young.. My son wanted to quit he did have a excuse I told him but you're throwing away a talent that our Lord Jesus gave you .so he saw I was going to sell his drums and started to cry and ask me for another chance I told him OK and he prayed the next day got a letter of conformation and he said mom I had asked our Lord for a chance and look a letter so now he wants to not never give up his blessings ..I want to thank the school and staff for being a big help in the development and mastering our son joevan skills and I thank our Lord Jesus Christ for the people he sent in our direction ...

Dwana Smith

My 5 year old son has been taking piano lessons for the past 6 months. He absolutely enjoys each session with Ms. Maria. She is very patient and makes music learning fun.

Keith Schwennesen

We have been so pleased with our instructors, as well as the lessons! Our three kids anxiously await their upcoming lessons each week. They have improved immensely and continue to find great joy in what they are learning. The instructors are great about giving feedback.

Laneil Sumpter

My daughter has been going to LAAPA for almost three years now. She loves working with Mrs. Mary. She has taught her so much throughout the years. I am so happy I picked LAAPA for my daughter

William Shewmake

My sons instructor Denise Bonis is amazing. She’s very talented, a great teacher, and extremely patient with my son. I highly recommend her for violin lessons. I’ve had nothing but good experiences with the staff who are extremely helpful. I may come and take lessons myself. They teach all types of instruments and dance. Check it out!!!!

Adri A

Recommended only if you agree with the philosophy of the school owner's assistant: "We just want students to have fun." But if you would like your child to receive solid and serious instruction in violin and piano, look for another place. LAAPA's website has a photo of a violin student holding the instrument on the wrong side--apparently no one has noticed even this elementary mistake. Many students perform their elementary level pieces at the concerts with wrong notes, no knowledge of counting, or sense of pitch and tonality.

Gulnara Sargulova

Ms.Neely is a wonderful piano teacher! And we love our lessons with Mr.Russel!

Valerie Corcoran

Both my daughters have been taking from Denise for the last two years. Denise is wonderful and always works with our busy schedule. We couldn't be happier with their music education at the River Ridge School of Music.

tricia reily

Mr Bill ROCKS!!! Summer camp, private lessons, Christmas concert...ALL genius things for kids to experience year round. Love it!!

Darlene Ford

John is so patient and supportive. I can't say enough about what an absolute pleasure it is to have him as my instructor and what a great institution the River Ridge is. Absolutely everyone I have encountered there has gone out of their way to make me feel welcome and supported. Thank you for a great experience!

Gracie Silva Official

My daughter has been taking voice lessons at the school for two years. She loves going to class and her teachers are extremely professional, engaging, and make it fun to learn. I've seen my daughter really find her voice and learn how to feel confident on stage. She now auditions for drama roles in her school plays, and recently received a role in the ensemble for a JPAS production. All of the administrators at the front desk are very patient and helpful. Their phone etiquette is extraordinary!!! I've seen it get quite busy in the lobby, and when someone calls, the administrator is super polite. We have a wonderful relationship with the school, the teachers (Ms. Meghan & Ms. Jessica) and feel that everyone supports the students in doing their best.

cassy cannon

River Ridge School of music and Dance is FABULOUS. I sent my 6 ye old to their summer camp so he could explore instruments and decide what he’d like to start taking lessons in. Best decision! He loves the camp ; was very interested in Violin. He has been taking violin lessons once/week with Mr. John Noel. John is patient with my son, very kind, and he is a wonderful violin teacher. My son also goes to the music theory class 1hr/week and he loves the class. We missed one week and my son flipped. I am so thrilled with this school. I have recommended it to several people since we’ve started .

Amanda Hale

As an adult student of The River Ridge School of Music and Dance, I highly recommend the programs to students of all ages. I have been singing since I was a child and after graduating college I was looking for a place to keep practicing and improving. After extensive research into available programs in the area, I decided to enroll. I was very pleased and surprised to find such a diverse offering of programs backed by a supportive and enthusiastic staff. I have been taking voice lessons with Bonnie for over a year now, building a strong repertoire and sharpening my skills as a singer. I would absolutely recommend The River Ridge School of Music and Dance to musicians of all ages and levels looking for a quality program.

C C

My granddaughters, Lucia and Margo, love their piano teachers. Ms.Maria and Ms.Jennifer. River Ridge School of Music staff could not be more helpful and professional. We just started piano so far so good!! Look forward to many years of learning.

Eric ERB Toys

Laapa is amazing! My son has been there for nearly a year and it’s been a great experience. He has taken drum and piano with Mr. Kirk over the last 9 months and we would highly recommend Laapa and Mr. Kirk. I love that laapa knows and understands my child’s needs while also maintaining a great balance of fun and professionalism! We highly recommend Laapa for music students of all levels!

Kimberly Lempfert

My son has been taking bass guitar lessons for a few months and we have been so impressed by his progress. Mr. Kirk has been great!

Michael Ralph

I live in New York City, but I was in New Orleans doing research for the summer. I needed to find a camp for my young son and daughter. I did some research and decided that the LAAPA-River Ridge camp had a lot to offer for a very good price. My experience exceeded even my most ambitious fantasies about what the camp would be like. The camp is held in a very controlled and well-organized environment. The staff is very friendly and thoughtful. I would often observe the classes for a few minutes before leaving or come early and the students always seemed really excited about what they are learning. And yet, while making sure that learning is fun, the staff also manages to help students appreciate how important it is to be disciplined, to stay on task and remain focused, during lessons. Plus, I appreciated receiving weekly reports from each of the instructors explaining how the kids were doing in each of the cIasses. I had an amazing experience and would happily do it again!

Jaclyn Whitman

We LOVE this school so much! I have a VERY high energy 5 year old who gets overly excited and can be easily distracted so I was a little hesitant about doing an hour lesson (30 minutes piano and 30 minutes voice) but Mr. Kameron is the PERFECT teacher for her! His personality is bubbly, vibrant and kind and he makes her lessons so fun for her! She WANTS to practice, she WANTS to come to her lessons and for a 5 year old to consistently want to do these things is a blessing! If anyone is looking for a youthful, exciting and engaging teacher who makes lessons truly enjoyable, ask for Mr. Kameron and you will not be disappointed!

Nick Pan

Hannah is the best teacher. My son likes her class so much and begs me to take him to Ms. Hannah's music class every day. Hannah is great. She is not only patient but also passionate in teaching. She provides exposures to various music instruments and styles to her students. We are very fortunate to have her as the music teacher!

Garnette Listi

My daughter is enrolled in Hip Hop at LAAPA - River Ridge. Though there are many dance schools in the area, she really likes taking classes here. She loves the teacher, Ms. Mary and has fun every week.

Katy Gaffney

We love this school! My 6 year old son attended their camp this summer and had an amazing time. He had the opportunity to play all sorts of instruments, dance, act & learn about music theory too. The recitals at the end of each week are so amazing - you can't help tearing up with pride. We decided to sign up for piano class this fall & he absolutely loves Wednesdays with Ms. Hannah. She is so sweet and patient and he has learned so much from her already. My son is Autistic and every single person we have encountered at the River Ridge School of Music & Dance has treated him with kindness and enthusiasm. I feel like we have found such a special place to nourish his artistic talents. Now the only question is - what class should sign up for next!

John Sibley

Our 5 yo daughter takes ballet here with Mrs. Mary and my wife takes guitar lessons with Bill. The school and staff are wonderful with top notch customer service!

Lynn Wilkinson

Her teacher , Ms Brita, is very sweet and my daughter loves working with her singing lessons. She looks forward to it every week.

Alyssa Schiaffino

I love my lessons with Ms. Kadi because we get along well and she is very friendly. She took time to get to know me and the type of music I like but has also introduced me to new music. Having her as my teacher for the past 6 mths has helped me grow as a singer.

Sonya Cialona

Just wanted to say how pleased we have been with our experience here. Have been taking piano & vocals for 3 years now. Kadi is an excellent instructor whom I can strongly recommend.

Chris audler

Our son enjoys trumpet lessons at River Ridge School of Music and Dance. The staff was very friendly and helpful when we were signing up for classes. Our instructor, Mr. Peter, has been great!

Benandcarol ben

As a piano student at the River Ridge School of Music & Dance in the 1980's and early 1990's I realized what a gift it was to learn an instrument. I wouldn't be where I am today without music lessons and to have the special experiences as a student at this school. These positive experiences became such an important part of me that I felt that I had to share my experience with my own daughter. My daughter Sarah loves to sing. So, I enrolled her in summer music camp four years ago and she had such fun that she wanted to take voice lessons. We were so fortunate to get Ms. Katarina as her teacher because she encourages her students to learn what inspires them to be creative and to not be afraid to perform and love to sing and play. Your child has the ability to be an excellent musical talent but it's rare to have a teacher and an institution like River Ridge Music School to foster that ability.

ashley anderson

I absolutely love River Ridge School of Music &Dance! The staff alone are so amazing and well mannered. When I first walked in I knew this was where I belong! The Environment is full of positive energy and positive vibes! Everyone there actually teaches and inspires you. They create the schedule that you need in order to Accommodate everyone’s busy life schedule. I love it! My paino instructor Katarina is so amazing and wonderfully blessed ! I connected instantly with this beautiful soul! She is patient,kind sweet and really enjoy helping her students achieve their goals! Since I have been working with Katarina I never feel pressured about learning. She allows you to move at your own pace! Never impatient, so understanding about life in general! I love this school...this the best thing this year that has bought me happiness and peace. The great energy you feel when you walk in is wonderful! If you have never visited this school Definitely give it a try, you won’t regret it!

Karin Bird

Kenzi really enjoys her preballet class with Ms. Mary! Even when she has make-up class with Ms. Megan - she always has a good time. Her favorite part is the music and free style movement! Looking forward to seeing her development - Karin

Jeff Novack

I cannot say enough good things about River Ridge School of Music! I have known the owners for several years and they are sincerely dedicated to making their schools the best facilities for music instruction in the state of Louisiana. I have had experiences with several schools over the past few years and no one can come close to level of professionalism you see here. The River Ridge school in particular is very clean, comfortable and has state of the art equipment along with a super friendly desk staff and amazing teachers The recitals they put on are second to none and I'm always amazed at the sheer number of students that take part. If you live in close proximity to any of their three locations I can't think of a single reason why you would go anywhere else for music lessons. When a school has been in business this long, with this many students, they must be doing something right!

Shane Subervielle

Our 3 year old loves the group music class that he attends. And the ladies at reception always play along with his obsession with the instruments behind the counter. They let him hold and play with them before we leave each time. We look forward to having him start private lessons when he's old enough!

Joshua Taylor

My son is a 1st time saxophone player. His instructor, Dr Marc, does a phenomenal job motivating and keeping him engaged. Dr Marc deserves a ton of credit for tapping into my son’s musical interest. My son is eager to learn how to read music and is more confident in his abilities to get better because of Dr Marc encouraging words.!

Keshawn Thompson

Mr. Gary is friendly and patient with my son.

Nicole Wiebelt

My daughter has been taking ballet lessons for the last 3-1/2 years at LAAPA. Ms. Mary is great! My daughter has really excelled in her class and she has gained confidence when performing. Good teachers make all the difference and we were very lucky to have found LAAPA!

Nicole Bruzik

We have been participating in the Preschool Music classes for about 2 years now. Ms. Kadi is wonderful - patient with the kids, the activities are engaging, and look fun. They get a nice survey of kinder music - songs, sequencing, instruments (get to play real instruments sometimes as well as kinder instruments). My just-turned-5-year-old boy has been learning music basics from these classes, but he thinks he's just singing and moving and having fun. We have also been participating in the parent & tot dance classes for about a year. Ms. Mary is sweet and the choreography is such that the kids don't even realize they're learning to dance. My just-turned-3-year-old girl always looks forward to the Fire Jump and the Princess Walk and recently started dancing without needing Mom out there with her. The classes are really enjoyable, for parents and kids, both.

shanmugavel thanigaivel

I’ve been learning piano with them for about 3 months. My instructor is very kind and explains whatever that I ask even that are out of their syllabus. More importantly the staffs are friendly and helpful. Enjoy learning music and dance with River Ridge school!!

Sharp Nine Properties

I took bass lessons with Bill for around 3 years and he was great- very friendly and willing to work with me on jazz improv and Fakebook tunes. Excellent facility, professional staff. Highly recommended.

estelle mariano

My two girls are enrolled in parent/tot ballet and pre ballet and they absolutely adore Ms Mary! Wonderful instructor, and great school, couldn’t be happier

Jeff Comas

River Ridge School of Music & Dance is one of the top arts academies in the country. Very professional, and locally owned by true authorities of arts education. They are the area's largest music & dance school for a reason.

Sharon Thomassie

The piano and guitar teacher Mr. Gary is incredibly motivating. He pushes the kids to improve, but he does so in a way that makes them excited to work hard. It is clear that he loves music and is passing on that passion to his students.

Gracie Santos

My son has been taking piano lessons for over 2yrs now with Ms. Alexandra...we love her! She’s very patient and nice with the kids. My son has learned so much from her, from proper sitting position to reading music notes. He’s confident enough to participate in the recitals.

Dreux Blalock

Even though it’s 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. It’s 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.

Melissa DeBoest

My daughter enjoys taking voice and piano. The teachers has taught her so much that she hates having to leave or even miss a lesson.

Nicole Sayyad

The dance program is wonderful! We take hip hop, musical theatre and the dance strength and conditioning classes. The instructors are engaging and knowledgeable. Mrs. Mary, the dance director, is amazing and always finding new opportunities for learning and performing.

Planta Planta

I had a teacher not show up for my music lesson. LAAPA's administrator(Wanda Cullen) was unapologetic and dismissive with regard to the situation. The handling of my situation at the administrative level was so poor that I cannot in good conscience recommend LAAPA.

MakeLifeSparkle !

My daughter looks forward to going to her lesson each and every week!!!

Anya Lincoln

Our experience at River Ridge school of music has been fantastic. The instructors are amazing, talented and relate well to kids. The school is well run. Music lessons are a highlight of our week!

Kalyani Koneru

My daughter had been taking lesson at river ridge school of music & dance for 3 years . She stared taking voice and piano with Ms Katarina for about 6 months now. Ms Katarina is patient and makes the lessons interesting and fun to learn.

Melissa Tuccio

Our son has been playing piano at LAAPA for the last 4 years. His teacher, Mrs. Katarina, has helped advanced his skills beyond our expectations. She takes the time to teach his lesson, answer all his questions and share her vast knowledge of music history. We can not be more satsified with our experience here.

Paul Brown

My grandson started piano lessons just a few months ago and he loves it. He's never been this enthusiastic about any other activity. He loves Candice his instructor. N

Erica Minter

Love this place! Very professional and thorough teaching. The prices are very reasonable. Hubby and the kids love it. Ms. Gracie is great with our teenage daughter. Joel is generic l fantastic with our teenage son and Hubby is loving his Bass Guitar Lessons!

Alex Donez

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.

ramesh prabhu

I have my son enrolled here. He has been taking guitar lessons with Mr. Bill for the past 3 years. He is kind, friendly and a fantastic instructor. My son loves coming to LAAPA. It is an outstanding school for music.

Judith McNair

My son has been trying to get me to teach him the guitar for years, but I just never could make enough time. I enrolled him in guitar lessons at River Ridge instead, and he’s thrilled with everything that he’s learning. We can jam together now, and that makes both of us very happy.

Anjanette Bent

My daughter was so excited to begin piano lessons. I knew how important it was to find the right fit for her to develop a lifelong love for the instrument. I can say River Ridge School of Music and Dance has been a great fit for us. Everybody is concerned with making sure your child has the best experience possible and working with you until it is perfect. She is excited to go to class every week, and doesn't complain when it is time to practice, because she gets excited every time she masters a new skill.

Office Staff

We know the owners, and they are great! They work hard to offer the best music and dance experience in the area. What a wonderful contribution to the community!

M J

Everyone is great from the front desk staff to the instructors. Thrilled to have my kids here!