Welcome to the Creative Arts Academy!
The Creative Arts Academy is a 501(c)3 non-profit offering children ages 5-17 a safe and caring environment in which to learn how to read, write, sing and play music.
But we are more than just music lessons. One of the biggest things that sets us apart from other traditional music schools is our commitment to being SPECIAL.
We’ve created a list of core values that we teach each and every one of our students so that they learn not only how to play multiple instruments and read music, but also how to be respectful community members.
Looking for Drum Lessons or Music Lessons and live in Bradenton, Palmetto, Parrish, or Sarasota? The Creative Arts Academy is offering classes in Manatee County at Palma Sola Presbyterian Church.
Classes Are Available:
Our Core Values (What makes us SPECIAL)
- Self-control: As part of each lesson, the Creative Arts Academy works with children to help learn patience, to increase their levels of concentration and accountability and to focus their minds and bodies on the music or lesson being taught.
- Public Outreach: The Creative Arts Academy prides itself on building community within its walls as well as in the surrounding neighborhoods. We teach togetherness and friendship, while also making a positive social impact through our performances throughout the year.
- Ethics: It’s important for children to learn right from wrong, not just at home, but wherever they might be. We make sure to commend acceptable and excellent behavior traits while taking the time to correct those traits that could negatively affect their own self esteem or the feelings of others.
- Creativity: Music could be called the expression of the soul. While we teach a variety of standard songs, we encourage creativity and want our students to learn their favorite popular music songs, as well as to not be afraid to create their own musical numbers.
- Inclusivity: As a non-profit, we believe that the art of music should be available to everyone, regardless of socio-economic standings, gender, race or orientation. The Creative Arts Academy has one main goal, which is to empower young people through the performing arts.
- Appreciation: Music can tend to fall in the background if not paid attention to enough. We strive to teach a variety of musical styles and encourage students to bring their own musical preferences into each class so that we all may learn what is important in each song.
- Long-term success: It is proven that students taking music classes score higher on reading, spelling and math tests, and can sharpen student attentiveness. These initial takeaways lead to greater achievements and potentially more opportunities long after students have graduated. Plus, the life skills that the Creative Arts Academy instills works to create a better person for the world at large.
Thank you for Being The One!
The Giving Challenge was held this year from April 26-27, 2022 from Noon to Noon and thanks to donors like you we were able to raise $2,825.
We are grateful to The Patterson Foundation and the Community Foundation of Sarasota for making this event possible and for doubling each donation between $25-$100.
Creative Arts Academy will continue to fundraise for Student Scholarships and to purchase a Musser 3 Octave Ultimate Vibraphone (No Motor) on Field Frame to use for instruction and during performances.
We appreciate your continued support and to learn more please visit DONATE
Testimonial
From Abbey Michelle Graham, former Creative Arts Academy student.
I’m not sure where to start because there is so much to say. If it were not for your dedication teaching me from a young age, I would not be the musician I am today. I still remember the classic songs you would teach the students and I remember the concerts I attended. Those are fond memories for me. I was not aware how much your lessons would help me develop a love for music, and it had put me on this path to get my masters, and hopefully doctorate.
I still remember your wise words of not performing a piece if you are underprepared and to get to a point where you are prepared and feel confident in performing said piece. This bit of wisdom has guided me through all my performances. Thank you!
Ms. Graham began studying with Mr. Lane Ruise and the Creative Arts Academy when she was in second grade. She later went on to become a part of the West Coast Youth Symphony.
Testimonial
From Yridian Z Martinez, Former Creative Arts Academy student.
From the bottom of my heart I just want to thank you for everything you’ve taught me as a young kid. Right now, I may not be a musician but at heart I still see myself playing my trumpet. Growing up I remember you always pushing me to learn my scales and arpeggios and even though I wouldn’t practice as much, it has helped me to be disciplined in life today.
I can’t thank you enough for opening a love for music in my life. My taste in music has changed. Back then I would listen to reggaeton and spanish music which isn’t bad, but now I love listening to gospel, R&B, funk and soul music. It’s a whole new world and more meaningful. At times it feels like I understand what the musician is feeling through the way they play. I would not be able to know this if it wasn’t through your knowledge of music. You were very patient with
all of us and at times I reminisced on those days. Thank you for not giving up on us but for always pushing us to our best and encouraging us at such a young age. I hope this letter finds you well, God bless you.
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