Business Details
48 Years
experience
Premier Music, Dance & Drama Education in New Orleans
The Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts, with its Mandeville Campus established in the early 1990s on the Northshore, has proudly contributed to the artistic enrichment of St. Tammany Parish. We have educated thousands of students in the disciplines of music, dance, and theater, guided by a team of instructors dedicated to sparking lifelong artistic passion. Our approach emphasizes creative, progressive lesson development, and our annual student performances provide an exceptional opportunity to celebrate their progress and achievements.Our Mandeville location uniquely offers a diverse array of performing arts programs within a single facility, making it an ideal destination for students at any level of experience. Whether you're beginning your artistic journey or seeking to refine your craft, we are committed to creating a positive and welcoming space. Our faculty are not only masters of their fields but are also engaging and supportive mentors. We tailor each lesson to suit individual student interests and goals, fostering both technical growth and personal expression through customized weekly instruction.
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
Our piano program emphasizes individualized instruction in a focused and engaging environment. Whether you're exploring music for the first time or refining your artistry, our skilled teachers adapt each lesson to your goals. Learn in-person or online with flexible options and expert guidance. From theory to performance, we offer comprehensive support every step of the way.
Violin Lessons
LAAPAs violin program offers a dynamic and inclusive approach for students ages five and up. Our faculty personalizes instruction using proven Suzuki and traditional methods, while optional enrichment classes provide added value. Students can explore various genres and enjoy both solo and collaborative opportunities. Each session is crafted to ensure steady progress and genuine enjoyment in learning the violin.
Drum Lessons
At LAAPA, our drum lessons offer comprehensive training for students ages five through adult in a fun yet professional environment. Students explore a variety of percussion instruments, styles, and techniques, including stick control, rhythm building, and solo creation. Lessons are personalized to align with each students musical goals. Optional enrichment classes are also available weekly at no extra cost.
Ballet Classes
At our ballet school, we teach students of all ages and experience levels, beginning at age four. Our curriculum includes structured training in ballet technique, terminology, and choreography. Whether students are new to dance or preparing for advanced performance, our faculty ensures steady progress and development. Classes run year-round, and new students may join anytime.
Acting Classes
Students enrolled in our acting classes explore character creation, stage presence, and scene work through a curriculum rooted in professional practice. Each level builds on the last, offering age-appropriate material and increasing performance challenges. Our faculty brings years of experience in theatre and film, creating a dynamic learning environment. Multiple performances each year allow all students to shine.
Musical Theatre Classes
Designed for ages 7 through adult, our Musical Theater classes combine singing, dancing, and acting training with industry professionals. The program emphasizes a broad spectrum of musical styles from Broadway classics to modern hits. Students enjoy personal guidance in small groups, resulting in strong performance skills and frequent opportunities to perform in campus productions throughout the year.
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 (26)
Kensley Harris
May 16, 2025
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Even though I just started, Dr. Vera has been such a great teacher! Shes very supportive, knowledgeable, and kind. Im very excited to continue classes with her!
Abigail Efferson
May 14, 2025
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the acting department with mr nicoli is not a cult.to sit in solom silence in a dull dark dock in a pestilence prison with a lifelong lock awaiting the sensation of a short, sharp shock from a chip and chippy chopper on a big black block (OK but in all seriousness, I would definitely recommend)
Kelly
May 12, 2025
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Mr Riccardo has been very patient with my 6-year old daughter. Shes learning piano for the first time and enjoying her classes with him. We love LAAPA!
Blythe Smith
May 11, 2025
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Going the acting department, run by Mr. Nicoli, was the best decision I've ever made. It's the best department in the area and it has given me an over the top education. I love this place 10/10 recommend
Kacee Kidder
May 10, 2025
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My 3 year old daughter loves this studio! She looks forward to dance each week and adores Miss Allison!
Samantha Reno
May 07, 2025
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We have been at Mandeville School of Music for 2 years and love it! My daughter has become an amazing piano player due to Mr. Ryan Kintz! You can tell he loves what he does and my daughter looks forward to her lessons with him.
Jimmy Laurent
May 07, 2025
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I wanted to take a moment to share my experience with the piano lessons I've been attending at the Mandeville LAAPA studio since January 2023. Under the guidance of my instructor, Kristin Anderson (since June 2024) my musical journey has continued to grow.
Kristin's unwavering patience and support have been instrumental in my learning process. No matter what piece I choose to tackle, she is always there to offer assistance and encouragement, making each lesson an enriching experience. Thank you, Kristen for your dedication and inspiring teaching style. Keep up the good work.
Jimmy
Kristin's unwavering patience and support have been instrumental in my learning process. No matter what piece I choose to tackle, she is always there to offer assistance and encouragement, making each lesson an enriching experience. Thank you, Kristen for your dedication and inspiring teaching style. Keep up the good work.
Jimmy
Nichole Robichaux
May 07, 2025
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My teacher is Allison and she is a fantastic teacher. She is patient and funny and great with the adult ballet students. I highly recommend her. I have participated in her classes with some of the younger students in preparation for the review and she is so good with them. Her patience with the little ones is admirable all while instilling a love of dance in them. Allison definitely deserves the win!
Andrea Crowe
May 06, 2025
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Dr. Vera is an amazing violin teacher. Stella has grown tremendously while working with her. Dr. Vera always makes lessons fun and Stella cannot wait to go each week.
Genevieve Gomez
May 04, 2025
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Learning how to tap dance was a long time dream of mine (bucket list). The journey to finding an adult only tap class was long. When I found LAAPA offered an adult class, I became excited. From the moment I started, Bridget made me feel that I could do this. I had previous trauma from a fall, so I was hesitant on doing some the steps. Bridget took her time with, encouraged me, and applauded my successes (as well as the other adults in the class). You can feel the love and passion she has for the world of performing arts and for her students. She values our concerns and listens without judging. She is just a gem to have as a teacher.
Jeffrey Loose
May 04, 2025
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Have experience playing but always wanted to finally understand the concepts and terms of music theory. Found the perfect instructor Ryan Tingle. Ryan has in depth solid knowledge of theory with broad professional practical experience across multiple instruments. At lot of basic didactics at the keyboard plus we work through pieces of music and discuss what's happening - meters, chord types and progressions, harmonic progressions (including physics lessons), scale modes, etc.
Never quite know what we're going to discuss at a lesson, spent 45 minutes discussing electric guitar effects one evening, but it's always immersive and intellectually rewarding. I may even get around to learning how to play better but that can wait.
Never quite know what we're going to discuss at a lesson, spent 45 minutes discussing electric guitar effects one evening, but it's always immersive and intellectually rewarding. I may even get around to learning how to play better but that can wait.
Joy Kampen
May 03, 2025
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I am an adult taking piano. Mr. Carter is very patient and explains when and why I dont get my rhythm down correctly. I have been playing at the recitals, and although I get very nervous, it is good for me to play for people other than my husband.
Roma Amor O'Connor
May 03, 2025
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We are beyond grateful for Mr. Ryan Kintz, who has been an exceptional piano teacher for our two children. Their dedication, patience, and passion for music shine through in every lesson, making learning both fun and inspiring. Mr. Ryan tailors each session to our kids' unique needs, fostering their skills and confidence while keeping them motivated. His kind and encouraging approach has not only improved our children's piano abilities but also instilled a lifelong love for music. We highly recommend Mr. Ryan to any parent seeking a truly outstanding teacher!
Jude
May 02, 2025
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My time at the Louisiana academy of performing arts has been a very elevating and informative experience because my amazing teacher Mr. Christian Thorne learning the piano. Mr. Christian has thought me piano like none other could have teaching me music theory, learning scales, and even going in to ear training. With my time at Louisiana academy of performing arts being thought by Mr. Christian I have learned new songs and even written my on song through the fun interactive lessons with him and I expect I will learn much more for the years to come under his teachings.
-Jude Watkins
-Jude Watkins
Priscilla Prosperie
Feb 19, 2025
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Brian is a excellent piano teacher. He really helps the student understand. His personalty is wonderful as well. I wouldn't want anyone else to be my daughters teacher. Keep on keeping on!
Jenny Schneider
May 21, 2024
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Great place for my boys to learn piano! They love their teachers and the staff is super friendly and helpful!!
AnnaClaire Courville
Feb 27, 2024
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I love taking the adult ballet classes here. Loreto is an amazing teacher who really takes the time to help each student individually. Would definitely recommend classes here.
Shawna R. Smith
Feb 22, 2023
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All three of my children have had a wonderful experience at LAAPA. Ms. Maddie is amazing and has a gift with the little ones (has patience of a saint). My oldest daughter is in the Dance Company and has truly blossomed here.
Sara Bartlett
Apr 22, 2021
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Ryan is so patient with our 7 year old. He doesn't rush her or make her feel hurried during this 30 minute lessons. She has come so far with piano lessons in just over a month. She walks out of the lessons talking about how much fun the session was and can't wait to practice. Ryan gives great instruction and is very encouraging.
Misa Te
Feb 05, 2021
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My daughter Esther dance teacher Brianna is a wonderful, being an amazing dance teacher highly recommended, the staffs were very friendly.
Kate Schrader
Mar 10, 2020
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My daughter is beyond excited for piano class every week with Mr. Nicoli! She has so much fun and it's amazing how much she has learned from him. His patience and encouragement are just two of the many reasons he is the perfect teacher for her. Mr. Nicoli is the BEST!
Bridgett Haggstrom
Oct 16, 2019
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Mr. Corey is my daughter's piano teacher at Mandeville school of Music. My daughter can be very shy when working with people she doesnt know, but Mr. Corey definitely has a gift in teaching children music and has made her completely comfortable! Mr. Corey is very knowledgeable, patient, and has great teaching techniques. I watch when my daughter makes a mistake and noticed he always finds away to point out something positive which helps to build her confidence.
Learning a new instrument can be tough, but Mr. Corey has made it easy for my daughter and she absolutely loves going to her lessons. She has learned so much and has caught on so much faster than I could have imagined! She is six years old and is developing a great passion for the piano. I am very grateful that we were matched with Mr. Corey, as I believe he has helped her to develop her passion for this instrument!
Learning a new instrument can be tough, but Mr. Corey has made it easy for my daughter and she absolutely loves going to her lessons. She has learned so much and has caught on so much faster than I could have imagined! She is six years old and is developing a great passion for the piano. I am very grateful that we were matched with Mr. Corey, as I believe he has helped her to develop her passion for this instrument!
Jennifer Rodrigue
May 11, 2019
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My daughter and I take the Mommy & Me ballet class with Ms. Megan. She is so patient and kind with her young students. Her classes are very engaging, age-appropriate. My daughter enjoys attending every week. I highly recommend!!
Carol Peter
Apr 22, 2017
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We have been absolutely thrilled with LAAPA since my daughter started taking in January. She takes piano with Carolyn Russell who is an amazing teacher and coach. Because of Carolyn, my daughter has excelled at piano. She also takes saxophone with Morris who has also been amazing and she has also excelled under his teaching and love for music. She participates in the jazz band and has been a great experience and opportunity for her.
We've been so impressed with the caliber of teachers, their love of music and how they want the best for their students. LAAPA AND the staff have all been so supportive, encouraging and accessible all of the time. They've been a blessing to my daughter and to us! Would recommend them to anyone wanting to advance their child's love and gift of music!
We've been so impressed with the caliber of teachers, their love of music and how they want the best for their students. LAAPA AND the staff have all been so supportive, encouraging and accessible all of the time. They've been a blessing to my daughter and to us! Would recommend them to anyone wanting to advance their child's love and gift of music!
Tohnya Holmes
Mar 08, 2017
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Jaycee has been taking voice lessons with Mrs. Katarina for about four months. She was a little shy at first but she is improving with every lesson. Mrs. Katarina makes it fun for Jaycee but also teaches her theory as well.
Chris Hickle
Dec 28, 2016
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We have loved this school! They are always growing and improving. The attention to detail shows. We love the owners and are happy to recommend this place to anyone in the area!