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.
CLooking 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 United Presbyterian Church.
Classes Are Available:
Meet Our Staff
Lane J. Ruise: Founder, Executive Director, Music Director
I have worked 8 years in public schools and 6 years in private schools as a general music teacher. In 1991 I earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Berklee College of Music in Music Education/Jazz Composition & Arranging. My greatest passion is to reach out to a community of diverse backgrounds and provide a positive experience for children in low social-economic families and establish to bridge the cultural gap in children 5-17 years of age through the performing arts.
My goal is to start children at the age when they can understand the music alphabet and see them soar into the enjoyment of Gospel, Blues, Classical, Jazz, Latin, Pop and World music. Students will experience with their instrument the role music plays in theater, orchestra, Jazz Band, Marching Band and whatever ensemble they desire to be active in. Learn more about Lane at our Board Members Page.
LaTerry Butler: Assistant Director, Vocal Instructor
LaTerry Butler, (terry-tammy@msn.com), has toured both nationally and internationally with the Show AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’. Other credits include THE WIZ, SHOWBOAT, WEST SIDE STORY, DREAM GIRLS, BUBBLING BROWN SUGAR, PURLIE, EUBIE, ALL NIGHT STRUT, FIVE GUYS NAMED MOE and the New York world premier of HI-HAT HATTIE. Originally from Michigan, he earned his B.A. degree from Wayne State University. Having done post-graduate studies at both Juilliard and Manhattan School of Music in NYC, (specializing in classical vocal-accompaniment/coaching and jazz improvisation); he also earned the Colleague Certification from the American Guild of Organists.
Mr. Butler was the recipient of numerous awards while living in the NYC area and was the featured keyboardist during the appearance of a past U.S. Vice-President. (If you think you can’t be intimidated, try being in a room full of The Secret Service.) Other appearances include: accompanist for Tramaine Hawkins in Kingston, Jamaica; Pianist for Rev. Ike; Interim Choir Director for the Sarah Vaughn Memorial videotaped at the Apollo Theater; and Pianist/Keyboardist for “A Holi¬day Festival” at Lincoln Center, N.Y.C.
Richie Ladouceur: Sound Engineer
I am a passionate audio engineer with a deep love for sound and the deep details about frequencies. I am currently in school at Full Sail University, where I am pursuing a bachelor’s degree in audio production. I am excited to be a part of Mr. Lane Ruise’s music program, which is known for its commitment to helping students develop their skills as musicians or to become musicians.
In addition to my academic studies, I am also an enthusiastic learner of music. I am always looking for new ways to improve my skills and to expand my knowledge of music theory, composition, and performance. I am also a believer in God and strive to better myself as a spiritual being. I am confident that my passion for music, my commitment to learning, and my strong work ethic will make me a valuable asset to any music program or audio engineering team. I am excited to start my career in this field and to make a difference in the world through music.
Kregg Edwards: Computer Software Specialist
Our Core Values
Togetherness – work with each other toward a common goal
Ethical – show acceptable and correct behavior toward oneself and other people
Creativity – Freely express yourself in order and decency
Self-Control – Have your actions and emotions under control
GIVING CHALLENGE 2024!
The Giving Challenge will be held this year from April 9th through April 10th, 2024, from Noon to Noon. 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 is fundraising for Student Scholarships, a Korg Nautilus 61 61-key Synthesizer Workstation, and a Musser 3 Octave Ultimate Vibraphone (No Motor) on Field Frame to use for instruction. 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.
Photo Gallery
