Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts - River Ridge

For over four decades, the Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts (LAAPA) - River Ridge campus has been a cornerstone of arts education in the greater New Orleans area. Established in 1978 as the River Ridge Music School, LAAPA has grown to become a leading private institution dedicated to bringing the joy of music, dance, and drama to students of all ages and skill levels. From toddlers taking their first steps in a dance class to adults rediscovering a passion for piano or acting, LAAPA provides a nurturing and professional environment where dreams are brought to fruition. Their philosophy goes beyond just technical proficiency; it's about fostering creativity, building confidence, and instilling a lifelong love for the performing arts. With a comprehensive curriculum, a diverse and highly qualified faculty of university-trained professionals, and modern facilities, LAAPA - River Ridge is committed to providing an unparalleled educational experience. Students are encouraged to explore their interests, whether in classical music, contemporary dance, or theatrical performance, making their artistic journey both enriching and deeply rewarding. The enthusiastic testimonials from parents highlight the dedication of teachers like Mrs. Karissa and Mr. Jordan, who inspire and elevate their students' potential, reinforcing LAAPA's reputation as a cherished local institution.

The Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts - River Ridge is conveniently located at 2020 Dickory Ave STE 200, Harahan, LA 70123, USA. This prime address positions the academy in a highly accessible area, making it an ideal choice for families and individuals residing throughout Harahan, River Ridge, Metairie, Kenner, and other surrounding communities in Jefferson Parish and the wider New Orleans metropolitan area. Dickory Avenue is a well-known street, ensuring that the facility is easy to locate using GPS or online mapping services. The strategic location provides excellent connectivity to major roadways, which significantly reduces commute times for students and parents traveling from various neighborhoods. Ample parking is typically available at the facility, contributing to a hassle-free experience for drop-offs and pick-ups. The ease of access makes consistent attendance at weekly lessons and classes more manageable for busy schedules, allowing more locals to seamlessly integrate performing arts education into their lives. LAAPA's presence in Harahan firmly roots it within the local community, establishing it as a trusted and convenient hub for artistic development.

• Comprehensive music lessons for various instruments and voice, including:
  • Piano lessons for ages 5 to adult, covering all musical styles.
  • Guitar lessons (acoustic and electric) for ages 6 and up, including banjo and mandolin.
  • Voice and singing lessons for ages 5 and up, across many styles.
  • Drum lessons focusing on fundamental skills and diverse musical styles.
  • Violin lessons for ages 5 to adult, including viola and cello.
  • Woodwind instrument lessons (flute, clarinet, saxophone).
  • Brass instrument lessons (trumpet, trombone, tuba).
  • Songwriting and composition classes.
• Diverse dance classes for kids, teens, and adults:
  • Ballet classes for ages 4 and up, including pre-ballet and pointe preparation.
  • Hip Hop dance classes.
  • Contemporary/Modern dance.
  • Tap dance.
  • Toddler dance classes.
  • Improv/Choreography classes.
• Drama and acting classes for kids, teens, and adults.
• Musical Theatre classes combining vocal performance, dance, and acting.
• Summer camps and workshops for immersive experiences.
• Private lessons for personalized instruction and accelerated learning.
• Online lesson options in addition to in-studio instruction for flexibility.
• Complimentary weekly music theory, strength & conditioning, and masterclasses for enrolled students.
• Unlimited makeup workshops for missed classes.
• Annual complimentary hour of recording studio time for music students.

• Established and trusted institution since 1978, with a long history of serving the community.
• Highly qualified and university-trained faculty, praised for their passion, professionalism, and ability to motivate students.
• A truly fun, inspirational, and professional environment, as noted in their mission.
• Curriculum customized to the interests of each student, ensuring engagement and success.
• Diverse range of programs covering music, dance, and drama, catering to all ages and skill levels.
• Flexible lesson options including in-studio and live online classes.
• Commitment to developing the "whole dancer" and "whole musician," focusing on technique, vocabulary, history, and performance etiquette.
• Regular performance opportunities for all students, including concerts and recitals.
• Strong emphasis on student confidence building and self-esteem.
• Non-competitive dance school philosophy, focusing exclusively on education and performance.
• Excellent customer service and communication system with parents and students.
• Positive reviews highlighting specific teachers like Mrs. Karissa for her warmth, kindness, and encouraging personality, and Mr. Jordan for his professionalism and effective technique training.
• Innovative use of technology, including iPads in studios for digital lesson plans with interactive content.
• Access to complimentary enrichment programs like music theory and strength & conditioning.

Address: 2020 Dickory Ave STE 200, Harahan, LA 70123, USA

Phone: (504) 738-3050

For families and individuals across Harahan, River Ridge, and the wider Louisiana region, the Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts (LAAPA) - River Ridge campus is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended choice for arts education. Its convenient location on Dickory Avenue offers easy access from various parts of the New Orleans metropolitan area, making it a practical and stress-free option for busy schedules. This geographical ease ensures that more local residents can readily participate in LAAPA's enriching programs.

What truly sets LAAPA apart for locals is its decades-long commitment to providing a professional, inspirational, and fun learning environment. As highlighted by numerous parent testimonials, the academy boasts an "amazing" and "wonderful" faculty, with specific praise for teachers like Mrs. Karissa, known for her warm, kind, and encouraging demeanor, and Mr. Jordan, recognized for his professionalism and ability to improve student technique. This dedication to exceptional teaching ensures that every student, regardless of age or starting level, receives personalized attention and expert guidance, fostering not only artistic skills but also crucial life skills like confidence and discipline.

The comprehensive range of programs, spanning music, dance, and drama, means that LAAPA can serve as a single, trusted hub for a family's artistic pursuits. Whether a child dreams of playing the piano, dancing ballet, or acting on stage, LAAPA offers a tailored curriculum designed to nurture their specific interests. The flexibility of in-studio and online lessons, coupled with valuable complimentary offerings like music theory classes and performance opportunities, further enhances the value for local families. In essence, LAAPA - River Ridge is more than just a school; it's a vibrant community where passion for the arts is ignited, talents are honed, and dreams are realized, making it an invaluable asset to the cultural landscape of Louisiana.

Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts - River Ridge

2020 Dickory Ave STE 200, Harahan, LA 70123, USA