Our Mandeville Campus represents a vital part of the Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts, which began on the Northshore in the early 1990s. From the beginning, our mission has been to offer high-quality education in music, dance, and theater to the families of St. Tammany Parish. Our instructors are passionate about the performing arts and focus on creating lesson plans that ignite curiosity and foster long-term engagement. We are proud to see our students thrive in their annual performances, which serve as milestones in their artistic development and reflect the dedication of both student and teacher.We are proud to provide the Mandeville community with the widest selection of performing arts instruction available in a single location. Beginners and seasoned performers alike are welcome to join our inclusive and professionally guided environment. Our teachers are experienced, personable, and committed to making every student feel at ease while pursuing their interests. Each lesson plan is carefully crafted to suit the individuals unique needs, ensuring a learning experience that is both rewarding and goal-oriented for all ages and skill levels.
Highlights and features
- Attend music, dance, drama classes in-person or online
- Over 45 years teaching performing arts in Louisiana
- Customized lessons for all ages and skill levels
- State-of-the-art studios with professional recording facilities
- Regular optional performances in professional venues
- Strict safety and sanitation protocols for all students
Payment methods
- Cash
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Services
We provide tailored piano instruction in a professional setting that inspires confidence and creativity. Our highly qualified teachers deliver customized weekly lessons across a range of genres. With an emphasis on communication and passion for teaching, students gain more than techniquethey gain lasting musical understanding. Join a community that supports your musical goals and celebrates your progress. 
Our comprehensive violin instruction accommodates beginners through advanced players, with lessons available in classical, fiddle, jazz, and other genres. Students benefit from weekly sessions tailored to their learning style and musical interests. Enrichment classes in music theory and performance arts are also offered at no extra charge. We welcome all ages, adjusting lesson plans to suit individual growth and goals. 
Our drum lessons cater to aspiring musicians of all ages, offering a well-rounded curriculum that includes technical drills, rhythm development, and stylistic training. We aim to foster creativity and discipline in a relaxed learning space. Weekly private sessions are supplemented by optional group labs in areas like theory and improvisation, enhancing each student's musical journey. 
With a focus on classical ballet, our program is designed to support students from their very first steps through advanced training. We emphasize correct technique, strength, and musicality, guided by expert faculty. Performance opportunities like our Spring and Christmas recitals celebrate student achievements. Registration is open year-round, and instruction is available online or in person. 
Our acting classes offer students ages 7 through adult the opportunity to study with experienced professional actors in a supportive, engaging environment. Classes cover performance techniques for both stage and screen, including movement, voice, and character development. Students also participate in regular performances tailored to their skill level. Enrollment is open year-round with no experience required. 
At our academy, we offer comprehensive Musical Theater lessons that nurture beginners through advanced performers. Students receive expert instruction in music and dance weekly, focusing on both traditional and modern musical repertoire. Limited enrollment ensures focused coaching, fostering each student's growth and stage presence. Performance opportunities include two full-scale productions annually. 
Reviews (26) Margaret Cullen
May 14, 2025
Kami Fleener
May 06, 2025
We cannot say enough good things about our experience at LAAPA. We enrolled our son in their acting program, and he has thrived ever since. Not only has he discovered that acting is his "thing", but through the program he has also improved in his confidence, reading ability, and memorization. His instructor, Nicoli, has been ABSOLUTELY amazing, and knows how to push and encourage his students in the very best way. Can't recommend enough!
Melanie Williams
May 06, 2025
Mr. Ben and Mr. Ryan are fantastic! My sons have learned so much from Mr. Ben at LAAPAhes been an amazing teacher for both drums and guitar. My daughter takes piano lessons with Mr. Ryan and absolutely loves it. Thanks to their guidance, all three of my kids have built the confidence to perform on stage at such a young age.
Lance Lapeyrouse
May 06, 2025
LAAPA offers fantastic programs for musicians of all ages. My son's guitar teacher, Sean Fullon, has been instrumental in our child's development. He does a fantastic job of blending music theory and technical skills with popular and classical music. I would highly recommend both LAAPA and Sean if your child wants become a skilled guitarist (and have some fun along the way).
Dad Coyne
May 06, 2025
Bonnie Pivach
May 05, 2025
My son receives lessons for piano from Benjamin Hurst. He is able to make the lessons interesting through a wide range of music genre for my son. One day he is learning Beethoven and the next day he is learning the Pirates of the Caribbean theme song. My son hasn't left frustrated once about not understanding the piece he is covering. He is always excited to attend his lessons and show Ben how well he has progressed!
Mohammed Hossain
May 05, 2025
Hannah Pfeifer
May 05, 2025
I loved my time here at LAAPA! I was a piano student at LAAPA for 10 years and was with Dr. Vera for 7 of those years. She was an amazing teacher! She was always so kind and compassionate and I truly enjoyed getting to take her class. She not only taught me piano and music skills, but she also took the time to get to know me which made my time so much more enjoyable. I highly recommend!
Lynnette Rivera
May 05, 2025
Dr. Vera has been my piano teacher for about eight years now and she is the sweetest, most understanding teacher Ive had! She always helps me with my music sheets when Im struggling, and shes very patient when I try to fix my mistakes. I really like her suggestions for potential songs to learn. Her music lessons always make me want to come back to learn more!
Carolina R.
Carolina R.
Jennifer Blanchard
May 03, 2025
My son has taken piano lessons from Dr. Vera for five years. She is an amazing instructor and role model! In addition to teaching him how to play the piano, Dr. Vera has taught my son valuable life lessons, as wellthe importance of practicing patience and perseverance, and of always having a positive attitude! Shes the best! Wish I could give her 10 stars!!!
Andrea Crowe
May 03, 2025
Nicole W.
May 03, 2025
Penny Hall
May 03, 2025
Priscilla Prosperie
Feb 05, 2025
Gina Maria Morse
Jan 28, 2025
My son took violin lessons with Mr.Riccardo who was always professional, courteous, and an overall excellent teacher. He was able to teach my son in a manner that was easy for him to understand violin posture, fingers, and reading music. My son felt confident yet challenged and always looked forward to his lessons.
Tabatha Collins
Oct 15, 2024
Wonderful school for all ages. As an adult beginner I was concerned when I started but everyone is so kind and helpful, I quickly got over it. I take piano and voice lessons with Carter who is just an absolute treasure of a human. Hes very knowledgeable, open to discussion to understand your goals, and willing to learn new songs himself if your tastes in music are a little quirky. 10/10 definitely recommend.
Stacy Valenti
Oct 14, 2024
Loving my adult dance classes with Allison! I started with Hip Hop and Contemporary about 6 weeks ago and loved that class so much I added Ballet. I love that its a real dance class with real skill development and see myself getting better each week. There are people of all ages and the instructor does a great job of teaching to all of our skill levels.
Alexandra Linares-Pena
Sep 30, 2023
The best performing arts school in Louisiana! I had been searching for acting classes for my 15 year old daughter for a few months, until I stumbled into LAAPA. I decided to have my daughter try a lesson, and frankly, it has been the best decision I could ever make. Ten months later, and 4 performance later, my daughter is thriving both academically and socially. I completely attribute that to Mr. Nicoli, who is an incredible acting teacher, and inspires his students to be and do great! And also to her wonderful classmates (whom are all outstandingly talented) and have accepted her into their group.
Thank you so much, Mr. Nicoli and everyone at LAAPA. Without knowing, you have boosted my daughters confidence, and have inspired her to pursue her dreams. She was able to get into St. Tammanys Talented Theater program, and in part, it was all thanks to the opportunities and experience you have provided her. I am forever grateful!
Thank you so much, Mr. Nicoli and everyone at LAAPA. Without knowing, you have boosted my daughters confidence, and have inspired her to pursue her dreams. She was able to get into St. Tammanys Talented Theater program, and in part, it was all thanks to the opportunities and experience you have provided her. I am forever grateful!
Rachel Blanchard
Apr 03, 2023
My 4 1/2 year old daughter just started pre-hip hop/acro classes with Ms. Maddie a few weeks ago. She absolutely LOVES it! Ms. Maddie is so sweet and patient with all of the kids, and you can tell that theyre all having a great time. I love that they had a non-ballet option for my incredibly active girl. The available hours were perfect for us, and the pricing is extremely reasonable. Also, the recital costume is modest!! So happy about that!
Kelly Wilkins
Mar 23, 2023
Shawna R. Smith
Feb 22, 2023
Kevin Burns
Apr 01, 2022
I was always debating on taking music lessons to learn the guitar and was a bit apprehensive about taking the first step, and after looking around I found the Mandeville School of Music. After the original meeting, I expressed that I was a complete beginner and wished for someone who could work with me. That's when i was introduced to my teacher Miles. I could not be happier. His expertise and his patience has made my experience wonderful. He has a wealth of knowledge in music and takes my interest in songs to help the trainings. I really appreciate how he will take the time to go over a lesson as many times as it takes for me to get it, and I never feel I am being rushed or just another class he has to teach. He really makes the lessons entertaining and wanting me to do better so I can show him what I was able to learn from him. Miles is a truly wonderful teacher and your school should be proud to have him as one of your instructors.
Delfina
Delfina
Sara Bartlett
Apr 22, 2021
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.
Rose Raymond
Sep 14, 2018
I take piano and voice lessons with Carolyn Russell, and guitar lessons with Christopher Talley. Both of these instructors are talented musicians, but also gifted in instructing. They have the insight and ability to give specific guidance for my improvement and yet at the same time allow the process to be fun. And participating in the group lesson that Chris Talley leads is a great opportunity to learn with others.
Kristina Klw Hotmail Com
Mar 08, 2018
Ernest Barrow
Jan 15, 2018
