"Nurturing the Love of Music"
History
Nora Bellows opened the Washington Academy of Music in the spring of 2009. Previously, she had been teaching out of her home in Washington and at music studios in Kirkwood and Chesterfield, Mo.
“It had long been a dream of mine to open up a studio in downtown Washington to offer quality music education to the area,” Nora said. “Six months after opening we grew enough to divide the one large studio space into three private lessons rooms and a waiting room; the academy has been growing ever since.”
Lessons and Classes
Students have a variety of learning options at the academy. Instructors currently offer piano, violin and voice lessons, specializing in both Suzuki and traditional methods.
Music for All Ages
The Washington Academy of Music welcomes aspiring and experienced musicians from age five to 105. Students can begin taking piano or violin at five, and voice at eight.
“The majority of our students are school-aged; however, we love the adult students who come in and always make us smile. I really admire the determination of our adults whether they are beginners or returning to the music they loved as a child,” Nora explained.
Performances and Activities
Academy students have many opportunities for musical growth beyond weekly lessons including recitals, parades, nursing home performances and other community events.
“It’s important to me and the other instructors that our students share their gift of music with those around them,” Nora said. “Our annual winter recital is not only open to the family and friends of our students but also the public. In 2014, we initiated our first nursing home tour in Washington in which the students played solos and ensemble pieces for the elderly residents on Mother’s Day.”
Past performances have also included Cardinals baseball games, the Washington Farmer’s Market, Art Walks and talent shows. Academy students are also encouraged to compete in local festivals and competitions.
Read the entire article on the “Rediscover Washington” website.
