Asheville Music School: Executive Director, Ryan Reardon

Strengthening WNC communities through music education and outreach, while sustaining teachers and musicians in a vibrant music culture.
The mission of Asheville Music School is strengthening communities through music education and outreach, while sustaining teachers and musicians in a vibrant music culture. At our West Asheville facility, more than 35 music educators conduct private lessons in a wide variety of music styles and instruments for students of all ages and abilities. We also offer band & ensemble classes, summer camps, group classes, master classes and workshops in a supportive family-friendly environment. Our instructors are professional music educators, many of whom also perform at local and regional venues. We strive to keep music education accessible for students by providing scholarships to those unable to afford music lessons, and we aim to keep music educators and teaching artists in business by providing affordable studio space.
Launched as a community business in 1996, Asheville Music School transitioned to 501(c)(3) status in 2012, and is governed by a volunteer board of directors. The school, located on Beacham’s Curve in West Asheville, is open 7 days a week and lessons can be scheduled any time of the day or evening.

Since its inception as a nonprofit, AMS has awarded more than $80,000 in need-based scholarships to those unable to afford private music lessons. The Sound Education outreach program connects AMS students, faculty and underserved community members through free performances and group music classes for veterans, seniors, the homeless, people in recovery and those living with disabilities.