Business Details
23 Years
experience
Expert Music Lessons in Columbia, SC
Columbia Arts Academy has been South Carolina's premier destination for music education since 2003. With three locations in Columbia, Lexington, and Irmo, we serve over 1,600 students annually through personalized instruction in guitar, piano, drums, voice, and 10+ instruments. Our faculty of 70+ professionally trained instructors combines technical expertise with innovative teaching methods, including cutting-edge technology in soundproof studios. Recognized as the Midlands' most awarded music school, we offer biannual recitals in prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall and maintain a 20-year track record of excellence. Our facilities feature observation windows for parental engagement, professional-grade equipment, and a unique Musical Ladder achievement system.We prioritize flexibility with seven-day scheduling from 9 AM to 9 PM and month-to-month enrollment. Our commitment to safety includes full-time staff supervision, security cameras, and transparent teaching practices. Students benefit from complimentary recitals, performance opportunities at major festivals, and exclusive discounts on music supplies. As an industry leader, we continually invest in facility upgrades and teacher development to maintain our reputation as the state's largest music school.
Services
Guitar Lessons
Piano Lessons
Drum Lessons
Voice Lessons
Violin Lessons
Bass Lessons
Banjo Lessons
Mandolin Lessons
Ukulele Lessons
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- 20+ years of proven excellence in music education
- 70+ professionally trained instructors with performance experience
- Seven-day scheduling from 9 AM to 9 PM
- Winner of more awards than any Midlands music school
- Exclusive Musical Ladder achievement system with rewards
What people say
Patient instructors
Flexible hours
Great for adults
Professional staff
Modern facilities
Services
Guitar Lessons
Our guitar instructors teach rock, blues, metal, country, and classical styles on both electric and acoustic guitars. Students receive personalized instruction tailored to their musical goals and skill level. With multiple instructors available, we match each student with the perfect teacher for their preferred genre and learning style.
Piano Lessons
Whether aspiring to play classical compositions or modern pop, our dedicated piano instructors help students develop technical proficiency and musical expression. Lessons accommodate all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced players seeking performance preparation.
Drum Lessons
State-of-the-art drum lesson rooms equipped with Roland electronic kits allow students to develop rhythm and technique in various musical styles. Instructors focus on proper hand positioning, rudiments, and performance readiness while incorporating modern teaching technology.
Voice Lessons
Our voice instructors teach proper breathing techniques, pitch control, and performance skills across multiple genres including classical, pop, and musical theater. Lessons emphasize vocal health and development of both natural ability and technical skill.
Violin Lessons
Violin teachers provide comprehensive instruction in classical and contemporary styles, focusing on proper bowing technique, finger placement, and musical interpretation. Students gain performance experience through recitals and learn to read music while developing their expressive capabilities.
People
Marty Fort
Founder
Musician, songwriter, and former music professor with 20+ years experience. Transformed Columbia Arts Academy into South Carolina's largest music school. Holds degrees in music theory and performance. Specializes in curriculum development and teacher training.
Questions
What instruments do you teach?
We offer lessons in guitar, piano, drums, voice, bass, banjo, mandolin, ukulele, and violin with specialized instruction in multiple musical genres.
Are lessons available for adults?
Yes! We have many adult students and instructors specifically trained to teach mature learners with personalized lesson plans tailored to individual goals.
What are your lesson hours?
Private lessons available Monday-Thursday 9 AM-9 PM, Friday 11 AM-7 PM, Saturday 11 AM-4 PM, and Sunday 1 PM-6 PM.
Do you offer performance opportunities?
We host free biannual recitals at prestigious venues including Carnegie Hall and local festivals with professional Steinway pianos and sound systems.
How much do lessons cost?
30-minute weekly lessons start at $37 with a one-time $25 registration fee. Discounts available for multiple family members and music supply purchases.
Are make-up lessons available?
Yes, we offer unlimited make-up lessons scheduled at your convenience with advance notice of absences.
