Most children have the necessary skills which enable them to begin formalized music lessons between the ages of 5-7. Piano and violin are the two most common instruments played at this age, but other instruments can be learned with much success. Musical experience at an early age is extremely important in a child’s development process. If you’re still not sure your child should begin music lessons, we are glad to offer consultation and to allow your child to observe a lesson. While there are advantages to starting earlier, when the interest is there, it is never too late to begin music lessons.

Yes, you can start lessons at any time, even mid-semester. While our private lessons are semester-based, registration is ongoing. The Program Fee applies regardless of start time, and lesson charges are pro-rated based on the remaining weeks. See our tuition and fees page for more details.

Study at AFTA involves both the joy of music/arts and the discipline required to develop artistic skills. Students are exposed to the great wonders of music and the arts while being expected to practice regularly, to learn the foundational theories of music/art, and to share their emerging talent in structured public performance or exhibition. The ample and gorgeous space of First Baptist Church provides a unique and inspiring setting for these goals to be realized.

Yes, you can request a specific teacher for private study. We consider each request based on the student's experience, learning style, and the teacher's availability. Check our faculty page for more details.

If parents are concerned about their child’s behavior, or if they want to be more involved in their child’s practice routine they are welcome to sit in on the lesson. However, it is not a requirement. Some children focus better without the parent present. Feel free to discuss this with your child’s teacher.

Daily practice is crucial for retaining techniques. Consistency is more important than duration, especially for beginners. Depending on the student's level, practice time can range from 30 minutes to 3 hours a day. Our teachers will help develop a suitable practice schedule. Visit our practice page for more details.

It is important that students be on time for lessons. Students who are 10 minutes (or more) late for their lesson will be considered to have forfeited their lesson. This will be considered an unexcused absence and the instructor is under no obligation to make it up. If running close to lesson time, please call the Academy for the Arts Office at 828.254.7841 while in transit. Communication is of the utmost importance. For more information, please see the attendance policy and makeup lessons policy page.

If a student wishes to discontinue lessons, a 30-day written notice will be required. The student will be financially responsible for the lessons that occur during those 30 days from the date notice is given whether or not the student chooses to attend the lessons. A refund will be given for the remainder of lessons that occur after the 30 days if previously paid for. The Program Fee is non-refundable. For more information, please see the attendance policy page.

If payment is 5 or more days late, a $15 late fee will be charged. Contact our office if you need to arrange a later payment date. We reserve the right to cancel or deny lessons for unpaid fees. For more details, see our tuition and fees policy page.

Enter AFTA through the clearly-marked entrance off the parking lot between First Baptist Church and the YMCA (access from Oak/Woodfin Street). Park in the AFTA spots near the entrance. A spacious lounge with WiFi and study space is available immediately upon entering.

First Baptist Church of Asheville supports AFTA because it believes in the power of the arts to enrich a person’s life and thereby make the world a better and more beautiful place. While a core value of AFTA states the belief that “growth in artistic ability expands a person’s capacity to experience the sacred dimensions of life,” neither students nor teachers are expected to adhere to any religious belief.