Business Details
48 Years
experience
Premier Music, Dance & Drama Education in New Orleans
Since our establishment in the River Ridge community in 1978, our studio has proudly served numerous families throughout Jefferson Parish by offering a robust educational program, a talented and diverse faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities. It brings us immense satisfaction to nurture a passion for music and dance that spans generations, as we now have the privilege of teaching the children and grandchildren of some of our very first students from the early 1980s.Our team consists entirely of university-trained professionals who are deeply committed to working with students at every skill level and age group. Whether you are just beginning your journey in music or dance, or you have prior experience, you will find a welcoming environment here. Unlike traditional lessons that focus solely on classical techniques, our approach embraces the styles and genres that each student wishes to pursue. We believe that grounding students in fundamental skills while encouraging them to explore music and dance they love is essential to fostering both enjoyment and success.
Services
Piano Lessons
Voice Lessons
Dance Classes
Guitar Lessons
Violin Lessons
Drum Lessons
Ballet Classes
Hip Hop Dance
Acting Classes
Summer Camps
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of excellence in performing arts education
- Faculty of 60+ professional instructors with specialized expertise
- Flexible online and in-person lesson options available
- Family-friendly environment with safety-certified facilities
- No long-term contracts or commitment requirements
Associations and certifications
- Music Teachers National Association
- Music Academy Network
Payment methods
- Cash
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
What people say
Patient instructors
Professional staff
Creative environment
Flexible scheduling
Confidence building
Services
Piano Lessons
Since 1978, we have helped thousands of students enjoy and excel at playing the piano. Our facultygraduates from top music schoolsbring clarity, warmth, and expertise to every lesson. Whether you're just beginning or advancing your skills, our structured yet flexible approach ensures steady progress in a motivating setting.
Guitar Lessons
At LAAPA, we offer personalized guitar instruction for students of all ages and experience levels. Our skilled instructors design each lesson around your goals, musical interests, and preferred learning pace. Whether you're just starting out or advancing your technique, we provide a supportive environment to help you grow. Lessons are available in both acoustic and electric formats.
Voice Lessons
At LAAPA, our private voice lessons are tailored for students ages 5 through adult and focus on vocal range, breath control, pitch, and tone development. Our experienced instructors adapt each lesson to match the student's age and musical goals. Weekly enrichment classes are also included at no extra cost. Start your vocal journey with us today.
Ballet Classes
The ballet curriculum at LAAPA builds confidence, strength, and skill for students at all levels. Beginning with age-appropriate fundamentals, we guide dancers through progressive classes that include barre work, center movement, and performance preparation. Expert instruction and creative choreography define our approach. Enrollment is open year-round, with both virtual and in-studio classes available.
Hip Hop Classes
At LAAPA, our Hip Hop classes provide a fun, fast-paced environment for dancers to develop strong technical skills and express themselves through movement. Each session includes progressive choreography inspired by todays pop culture. We prioritize music and routines that are suitable for all age groups, ensuring a positive and inclusive classroom atmosphere.
Questions
What age requirements exist for different programs?
Programs start at age 1.5 for toddler music classes, with most lessons beginning at age 5. Some instruments have specific age recommendations based on physical development needs.
Do you offer online lesson options?
Yes, we provide virtual instruction for all music and dance programs with the same qualified instructors as our in-person classes.
What performance opportunities exist for students?
We offer optional recitals, festivals, and professional theater productions throughout the year for all skill levels.
Are trial lessons available?
Yes, we recommend trying a single session before committing to ensure proper instructor and program fit for your goals.
What safety measures are in place?
Our Family Safety Plan includes observation windows, security cameras, background checks, and strict sanitation protocols across all campuses.
Videos
Reviews (12)
Brooke Naranjo
May 17, 2025
Report
I like the teacher from studio 7, he teaches me a lot. I drum with him on Fridays from 18:00-18:30
-A drummer form laapa
-A drummer form laapa
Jennifer Hicks
May 15, 2025
Report
Miss Karissa is the best teacher my kids ever had! She's AMAZING at teaching and she's very patient with all of her students. She's creative with dancing and my kids think she's very funny! My kids love her so much and she's a great teacher.
Jaclyn Adams
May 09, 2025
Report
Bridget Zewe is an amazing acing teacher! Jonas loves learning from her and shes great with him! Shes sweet and we know she cares about Jonas and all her students.
Greg Obrien
May 05, 2025
Report
I love the River Ridge School of Music! Ms. Piper has been my instructor for guitar lessons for a little under a year now. She is very kind and encouraging. She listens and asks about my interest in music and finds songs to learn that match my interest. I also like how Ms. Piper organizes for students to perform at retirement homes Thank you! I also want to add that I started piano and voice lessons with Ms. Hannah who moved out of state.
I credit LAPAA for getting me into Gifted and Talented Music, for teaching courage during recitals and LAPAAfest as well as being able to audition for and be accepted into the All State Middle School Choir. I have learned a lot and continue to do so through LAPAA. Thank you!
I credit LAPAA for getting me into Gifted and Talented Music, for teaching courage during recitals and LAPAAfest as well as being able to audition for and be accepted into the All State Middle School Choir. I have learned a lot and continue to do so through LAPAA. Thank you!
Icary Sadaiappen
Feb 24, 2025
Report
We have been with Mr Daniel for several years he's very patient and really pays attention to details. He's love for piano and teaching is amazing. Am very Happy we are at Laapa
Lacey Killeen
Oct 03, 2022
Report
LAAPA has be a great decision! Everyone we have spoken with has been kind and informative. My son is learning to play the guitar. He looks forward to his weekly session with Stephen!! It is amazing how Stephen is able to connect with my son and help him to learn and encourage him to do his best!
Kathleen Harrison
May 10, 2020
Report
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!
Dreux Blalock
Sep 16, 2019
Report
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.
R. Hardee
Dec 07, 2018
Report
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 daughters 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.
Her teachers serve as mentors in the midst of their music lessons. Mr. Bill and Ms. Kadi will keep us involved with our daughters 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.
Nick Pan
Oct 24, 2018
Report
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!
Ramesh Prabhu
May 01, 2018
Report
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.
C. Callaghan
Sep 29, 2016
Report
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.