Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Academy of Music building?

The Lawrence Academy of Music is located at 100 West Water Street, Appleton, just beneath the Oneida Street bridge. From College Avenue: turn south on Drew Street and continue down the hill and around the corner. At the stop sign, you will see the Academy of Music building directly ahead of you.

Do you offer instruction on all instruments?

Private instruction is available in voice, piano, guitar, harp, violin, viola, cello, string bass, flute, recorder, clarinet, oboe, bassoon, saxophone, French horn, trumpet, low brass, and percussion. Ensembles are available for adults interested in learning orchestral instruments.

How long are lessons?

Private lessons vary in length according to the age and ability of the student. Lessons are available in quarter hour increments (15 minutes, 30 minutes, 45 minutes, 1 hour).

What are the ages of your students?

At the Lawrence Academy of Music, opportunities abound for children and adults. Academy programs welcome children as young as six months of age (Early Childhood Music); adults are welcome to study an instrument privately, take group classes, participate in the gamelan ensemble, attend Opera Outings, or join our adult orchestra.

Are all lessons held in the building?

Most studio teachers hold lessons in the Academy building. Trinity Lutheran Church, 209 South Allen Street, Appleton, houses our ASTRO (Academy String Orchestra), adult orchestra, and the Ragazze and Primo Girl Choirs. Intermezzo Girl Choir is housed at First English Lutheran Church, 326 East North Street, Appleton. Cantabile Girl Choir rehearses at Madison Middle School, 2020 South Carpenter Street, Appleton. Bel Canto Girl Choir, Symphonic Band, and Wind Ensemble all rehearse in classrooms of the Lawrence Conservatory. The gamelan is housed inside Colman Hall at Lawrence University, 212 South Durkee Street, Appleton. Harp lessons are given in the Stephen Scarff House on the Lawrence University campus, 726 East College Avenue, Appleton.

How much are lessons with your teachers?

Private lessons with Academy teachers are $25.50 per half hour. For a full list of prices, see the fees page. Ensemble fees vary widely and are listed on each ensemble’s web page.

What if I can't afford the tuition?

Tuition assistance is available to ensure equal access to all Academy programs, regardless of a student’s financial status. Download forms and applications here: Scholarship Information

Why should I study music with the Academy?

Academy teachers have years of teaching and performing experience on their instrument. Academy students have access to recitals, master classes, and festivals; students who demonstrate a high level of interest in music can become more well-rounded by also registering for theory and aural skills classes through the Academy.

How is the Academy affiliated with the university?

The Academy is a division of the Lawrence Conservatory of Music. It offers musical instruction to Fox Valley residents of all ages and interest levels, serves as a laboratory school for conservatory students, and offers preparatory experiences for high school students interested in conservatory training.

How can I contribute to the Academy of Music?

To make a contribution to the scholarship fund or Academy programs, please contact us at 920-832-6632 or e-mail acad_music@lawrence.edu. Volunteer service is gratefully accepted in lieu of monetary gifts. Gifts may also be made online.

How can I contact the Academy of Music?

You can reach the Academy office by calling 920-832-6632 or sending an e-mail message to Acad_Music@lawrence.edu