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Fall Semester & Recurring Classes

Our Fall Semester runs for a set number of weeks with one-time semester tuition.

Recurring Classes run continuously through the year and offer flexible monthly or semester-lump payments.

To apply for tuition assistance, click to download this form and return it to our front desk or email it to schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com.

AOA School of the Arts will be held in four locations:

The Twiford Room in AOA’s main building (516 E. Main St.)

The Maguire Theatre in AOA’s main building (516 E. Main St.)

The Madrin Studio (115 N. Poindexter St.)

The Water Street Studio (115 N. Water St.)

Fall School of the Arts Semester

September 8th-December 14th

Please note: There will be no classes held September 28th-October 2nd and November 23rd-November 27th

Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.

This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.

To apply for tuition assistance, click to download this form and return it to our front desk or email it to schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com.

Fall Semester FAQ’s

To apply for tuition assistance, click to download this form and return it to our front desk or email it to schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com.

Ages 18-35 Months

FULL! Email schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com to join waitlist. Tuesday Tiny Tutus (18-35months) Caregiver and Me! Tuesdays 3-3:30
from $35.00

Introduce your little one to the joy of movement, music, and dance! Caregivers join their child as they explore basic ballet steps, imaginative movement, and rhythm while building coordination, confidence, and special memories together.

Choose a month or bundle!

Class Dates

Month 1 (September)

September 1st

September 8th

September 15th

September 22nd

Month 2 (October)

October 6th

October 13th

October 20th

October 27th

Month 3 (November)

November 3rd

November 10th

November 17th

December 1st

Please note: There will be no classes held September 28th-October 2nd and November 23rd-27th

Dress Code:

Girls: leotard, tights, ballet shoes, hair secured away from face

Boys: White or black T-shirt, black shorts or leggings, ballet shoes

Teacher: Ms. Ciara

Location: Water Street Studio (115 Water Street)

FULL! Email schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com to join waitlist. Thursdays Tiny Tutus (18-35months) Caregiver and Me! Thursdays 10-10:30
from $35.00

Introduce your little one to the joy of movement, music, and dance! Caregivers join their child as they explore basic ballet steps, imaginative movement, and rhythm while building coordination, confidence, and special memories together.

Choose a month or bundle!

Class Dates

Month 1 (September)

September 3rd

September 10th

September 17th

September 24th

Month 2 (October)

October 8th

October 15th

October 22nd

October 29th

Month 3 (November)

November 5th

November 12th

November 19th

December 3rd

Please note: There will be no classes held September 28th-October 2nd and November 23rd-27th

Dress Code:

Girls: leotard, tights, ballet shoes, hair secured away from face

Boys: White or black T-shirt, black shorts or leggings, ballet shoes

Teacher: Ms. Ciara

Location: Madrin Studio (115 N Poindexter Street)

Ages 3-5

Full! Email schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com to join waitlist! Thursday Little Dancers! Ballet/Tap (Ages 3–5) Thursdays 10:45–11:30
from $40.00

This beginner dance class introduces ballet and tap through imaginative movement, music, and age-appropriate technique. Students build coordination, rhythm, balance, and confidence while having fun.

This class will have an informal December recital, admission will be free, and students will need to provide their own pink leotard, pink tights, and ballet/tap shoes. You must participate in November classes in order to be in the recital. Dress rehearsal December Tuesday 15th 5-6pm, Recital December 17th students should arrive at 5:00pm, performance will be at 6:30pm

Choose a month or bundle!

Class Dates

Month 1 (September)

September 3rd

September 10th

September 17th

September 24th

Month 2 (October)

October 8th

October 15th

October 22nd

October 29th

Month 3 (November)

November 5th

November 12th

November 19th

December 3rd

December 10th

Recital Rehearsal: Tuesday, December 15th 5-6pm

Recital Date: TBD

Please note: There will be no classes held September 28th-October 2nd and November 23rd-27th

Dress Code:

Girls: leotard, tights, ballet & tap shoes, hair secured away from face

Boys: White or black T-shirt, black shorts or leggings, ballet & tap shoes

Teacher: Ms. Ciara

Location: Madrin Studio (115 N Poindexter Street)

Parents: Parents: The goal of this class is to help students build independence by attending class on their own, listening to the instructor, and participating without parents present. We encourage families to work toward drop-off as students are ready, at a pace that feels comfortable. Parents are always welcome to join us for the final five minutes of class to observe..

Full! Email schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com to join waitlist! Tuesday Little Dancers! Ballet/Tap (ages 3-5) Tuesdays 3:30-4:15
from $40.00

This beginner dance class introduces ballet and tap through imaginative movement, music, and age-appropriate technique. Students build coordination, rhythm, balance, and confidence while having fun.


This class will have an informal December recital, admission will be free, and students will need to provide their own pink leotard, pink tights, and ballet/tap shoes. You must participate in November classes in order to be in the recital. Dress rehearsal December Tuesday 15th 5-6pm, Recital December 17th students should arrive at 5:00pm, performance will be at 6:30pm

Choose a month or bundle!

Class Dates

Month 1 (September)

September 1st

September 8th

September 15th

September 22nd

Month 2 (October)

October 6th

October 13th

October 20th

October 27th

Month 3 (November)

November 3rd

November 10th

November 17th

December 1st

December 8th

December 5th, Recital Dress Rehearsal 5-6pm

Please note: There will be no classes held September 28th-October 2nd and November 23rd-27th

Dress Code:

Girls: Leotard, tights, ballet/tap shoes, hair secured away from face

Boys: White or black T-shirt, black shorts or leggings, ballet/tap shoes

Teacher: Ms. Ciara

Location: Water Street Studio (115 Water Street)

Parents: Parents: The goal of this class is to help students build independence by attending class on their own, listening to the instructor, and participating without parents present. We encourage families to work toward drop-off as students are ready, at a pace that feels comfortable. Parents are always welcome to join us for the final five minutes of class to observe..

Ages 5-7

Ages 7-11

Dance I: Jazz, Hip Hop, & More (Ages 5–11) Tuesday 6:30-7:30pm
$100.00

This upbeat class introduces jazz technique while strengthening ballet foundations, flexibility, coordination, and performance skills through fun choreography and movement.

Students may enroll individually or pair it with Intro to Tap for a full hour and a half of dance. If enrolling in both classes, use code TAP at check out!

Teacher: Mr. Micah

Location: Water Street Studio (115 N Water Street Street)

All School of the Arts classes run from Tuesday, September 8th-Monday, December 14th 

Please note: There will be no classes held September 28th-October 2nd and November 23rd-27th 

Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.

This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.

Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com

Intro to Tap (ages 5-11) Tuesdays 7:30-8:00
$55.00

Discover the joy of tap dancing while learning basic steps, rhythms, and musicality. This beginner-friendly class builds coordination, timing, and confidence through fun combinations and energetic movement, making it the perfect introduction to the world of tap.

Students may enroll individually or pair it with Dance I for a full hour and a half of dance. If enrolling in both classes, use code TAP at check out!

Teacher: Mr. Micah

Location: Water Street Studio (115 N Water Street Street)

All School of the Arts classes run from Tuesday, September 8th-Monday, December 14th 

Please note: There will be no classes held September 28th-October 2nd and November 23rd-27th 

Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.

This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.

Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com

Acting for Stage & Screen (Ages 9-18) Wednesdays 5:15–6:00
$90.00

Students build acting fundamentals through scene work, improvisation, and on-camera exercises while developing confidence and authentic performances for both stage and film.

Teacher: Ms. Kelley

Location: Madrin Studio (115 N Poindexter Street)

All School of the Arts classes run from Tuesday, September 8th-Monday, December 14th 

Please note: There will be no classes held September 28th-October 2nd and November 23rd-27th 

Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.

This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.

Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com

Advanced River City Strings (Grades 3-12) Thursdays 4:30-6:00
$120.00

Students will learn to play in a group setting that adapts to their level of knowledge. New learners will focus on the basics of reading music and playing notes, while experienced students will develop their skills in an ensemble setting.

To sign up for the advanced class, students should have played for one year in River City Strings or have one year of prior instruction. Some instruments are available for loan. Contact schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com to inquire.

This class will have an informal recital Monday, 14th at 5:00pm

Teacher: Danny Tate

Location: Twiford Room (3rd floor of main building- 516 E Main Street)

All School of the Arts classes run from Tuesday, September 8th-Monday, December 14th 

Please note: There will be no classes held September 28th-October 2nd and November 23rd-27th 

Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.

This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.

Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com

Beginner River City Strings (Grades 3-12) Mondays 4:30-5:30
$100.00

Students will learn to play in a group setting that adapts to their level of knowledge. New learners will focus on the basics of reading music and playing notes, while experienced students will develop their skills in an ensemble setting.

Some instruments are available for loan. Contact schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com to inquire.

This class will have an informal recital Monday, 14th at 5:00pm

Teacher: Danny Tate

Location: Twiford Room (3rd floor of main building- 516 E Main Street)

All School of the Arts classes run from Tuesday, September 8th-Monday, December 14th 

Please note: There will be no classes held September 28th-October 2nd and November 23rd-27th 

Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.

This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.

Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com

Ages 11-18

Beginner River City Strings (Grades 3-12) Mondays 4:30-5:30
$100.00

Students will learn to play in a group setting that adapts to their level of knowledge. New learners will focus on the basics of reading music and playing notes, while experienced students will develop their skills in an ensemble setting.

Some instruments are available for loan. Contact schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com to inquire.

This class will have an informal recital Monday, 14th at 5:00pm

Teacher: Danny Tate

Location: Twiford Room (3rd floor of main building- 516 E Main Street)

All School of the Arts classes run from Tuesday, September 8th-Monday, December 14th 

Please note: There will be no classes held September 28th-October 2nd and November 23rd-27th 

Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.

This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.

Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com

Acting for Stage & Screen (Ages 9-18) Wednesdays 5:15–6:00
$90.00

Students build acting fundamentals through scene work, improvisation, and on-camera exercises while developing confidence and authentic performances for both stage and film.

Teacher: Ms. Kelley

Location: Madrin Studio (115 N Poindexter Street)

All School of the Arts classes run from Tuesday, September 8th-Monday, December 14th 

Please note: There will be no classes held September 28th-October 2nd and November 23rd-27th 

Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.

This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.

Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com

Advanced River City Strings (Grades 3-12) Thursdays 4:30-6:00
$120.00

Students will learn to play in a group setting that adapts to their level of knowledge. New learners will focus on the basics of reading music and playing notes, while experienced students will develop their skills in an ensemble setting.

To sign up for the advanced class, students should have played for one year in River City Strings or have one year of prior instruction. Some instruments are available for loan. Contact schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com to inquire.

This class will have an informal recital Monday, 14th at 5:00pm

Teacher: Danny Tate

Location: Twiford Room (3rd floor of main building- 516 E Main Street)

All School of the Arts classes run from Tuesday, September 8th-Monday, December 14th 

Please note: There will be no classes held September 28th-October 2nd and November 23rd-27th 

Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.

This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.

Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com

Vocal Performance (Ages 11–18) Wednesdays 6:00–7:00
$100.00

Strengthen vocal technique, stage presence, harmony, microphone skills, and performance confidence while exploring contemporary, Broadway, and pop repertoire.

Teacher: Ms. Kelley

Location: Madrin Studio (115 N Poindexter Street)

All School of the Arts classes run from Tuesday, September 8th-Monday, December 14th 

Please note: There will be no classes held September 28th-October 2nd and November 23rd-27th 

Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.

This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.

Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com

River City Strings

River City Strings is Arts of the Albemarle's premier children's violin program. With its success over the past three years, Director Danny Tate, has created two weekly violin classes to serve beginner violinists and more advanced students. Violin classes are offered in the Fall and the Spring with a free end of semester concert for the community.

Beginner River City Strings (Grades 3-12) Mondays 4:30-5:30
$100.00

Students will learn to play in a group setting that adapts to their level of knowledge. New learners will focus on the basics of reading music and playing notes, while experienced students will develop their skills in an ensemble setting.

Some instruments are available for loan. Contact schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com to inquire.

This class will have an informal recital Monday, 14th at 5:00pm

Teacher: Danny Tate

Location: Twiford Room (3rd floor of main building- 516 E Main Street)

All School of the Arts classes run from Tuesday, September 8th-Monday, December 14th 

Please note: There will be no classes held September 28th-October 2nd and November 23rd-27th 

Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.

This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.

Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com

Advanced River City Strings (Grades 3-12) Thursdays 4:30-6:00
$120.00

Students will learn to play in a group setting that adapts to their level of knowledge. New learners will focus on the basics of reading music and playing notes, while experienced students will develop their skills in an ensemble setting.

To sign up for the advanced class, students should have played for one year in River City Strings or have one year of prior instruction. Some instruments are available for loan. Contact schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com to inquire.

This class will have an informal recital Monday, 14th at 5:00pm

Teacher: Danny Tate

Location: Twiford Room (3rd floor of main building- 516 E Main Street)

All School of the Arts classes run from Tuesday, September 8th-Monday, December 14th 

Please note: There will be no classes held September 28th-October 2nd and November 23rd-27th 

Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.

This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.

Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com

Meet the Instructors

  • Allison Hopper

    Art

  • Danny Tate

    Violin

  • Grace Jones

    Theatre

  • Kat Andre

    Art

  • Katy McBride

    Dance

  • Kim Wilkerson

    Clay

  • Lauren Luther

    Musical Theatre

  • Luke Mayberry

    Group Drums and Ukulele

  • Mark Brothers

    Art

  • Micah Houghtaling

    Dance

  • Natalie Hill

    The Center Players

  • Pearl Napolitano

    Voice

  • Rebecca Mlinek

    Writing

  • Savannah Winslow

    Musical Theatre

Music

Music

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