About2025-08-25T15:30:10-05:00

About Us

Our mission is to equip the next generation of performers with the skills, mindset and confidence to thrive on any stage!

Saskia Harmon - Director

kyle chowning

President & Owner

Welcome

Thanks for stopping by! My wife, Kristy, and I founded ROOTS Academy in 2012 with a simple idea—create a place where students of all ages can learn and grow in a safe, creative, and inspiring environment. Today, we are a vibrant community of over 1,400 growth-minded creatives pursuing our passions in music, dance, and theatre.

At ROOTS, everything we do is guided by The ROOTS Way, built on three core values:
✅ Mindset Matters – Growth begins with the right mindset.
✅ Excellence Matters – We strive for our best in everything we do.
✅ People Matter – Every student, family, and instructor is valued.

If you’re wondering whether ROOTS Academy is the right fit for you, we invite you to come in and experience it for yourself. We offer free trial music lessons and dance classes, so you can explore and find what inspires you.

I hope to see you in the studio soon!

-Kyle

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to email info@rootsacademy.com or call/text us at (615) 804-1177.

what we offer

  • Music Lessons available for ages 5 to adult in piano, guitar, voice, drums, violin, cello, ukulele, bass and more – in studio or your home.

  • OnStage Program including bands, courses and ensemble groups for beginner to advanced level musicians.

  • Dance Classes available for ages 18 months through 18 years and include styles such as ballet, jazz, tap, hip-hop, contemporary, and more.

  • Competitive Dance Program is designed for dedicated dancers looking to take their skills to the next level. This program focuses on advanced technique, performance excellence, and participation in competitions.

  • Musical Theatre program unites dance, voice, and acting training for aspiring performers of all skill levels

  • Recitals are offered throughout the year, including the annual Dance recital, the semi-annual OnStage Band Show and the quarterly RMA Fests, providing students with opportunities to perform for live audiences and celebrate their progress.

  • Summer Camps are available in music, dance, musical theatre, and preschool programs in a fun, creative environment.

our promise

We are so confident that you’ll love your experience at ROOTS that we guarantee your satisfaction for the first 30 days (4 classes or lessons), or your money back.

THE ROOTS WAY

Our mission is to equip the next generation of performers with the skills, mindset and confidence to thrive on any stage. Our vision is to be the trusted studio throughout Middle Tennessee for premier training in music, dance athletics, and performing arts.

mindset
matters

(How we Think)

We believe a healthy mindset affects how we show up in and outside the studio.

excellence
matters

(What we Do)

We believe excellence comes when defining & preparing for success is matched with discipline & passion.

people
matter

(How we Act)

We believe a healthy mindset affects how we show up in and outside the studio.

Meet our teamGraphic

Meet the dedicated team who guide ROOTS Academy’s mission to inspire, serve, and develop artists through music, dance and theatre education.

Meet our team

Meet the dedicated team who guide ROOTS Academy’s mission to inspire, serve, and develop artists through music, dance and theatre education.

Leadership Team

Dance team

Music team

Marketing team

Operations team

Our History

August 2012
Kyle & Kristy Chowning purchased the business, thanks to the generosity of our investors, Warren & Evelyn Hall.
January 2013
Name was changed from School of Worship to ROOTS Academy Launched ROOTS Dance
June 2013
Launched our first season of Summer music & dance camps
February 2015
Launched a new location in Thompson Station (closed in January 2016)
August 2016
Due to our growth, we leased a building just a quarter mile from our original location and opened Studio B, adding a second dance studio to our space.
July 2017
The owners purchased and began renovations on 320 Southgate Court in Brentwood, TN—the new, permanent home for ROOTS Academy. This 11,000-square-foot building enabled us to expand to three dance studios, 13 music studios, and add much-needed office space for our growing administrative team.
October 2017
ROOTS Dance took the stage for our first dance competition.
October 2017
We moved out of our original location at 216 Seaboard and our second location (Studio B) into one completely renovated studio space at 320 Southgate Court.
May 2019
Acquired the 5,500-square-foot building next to our current location, expanding our total capacity to 16,500 square feet. This expansion includes five dance studios, 13 music studios, and a dedicated band studio.
November 2019
We opened The Annex, adding 2,700 square feet of sprung-floor dance studio space and a 600-square-foot band studio for our growing Band program. The Annex features two lobby areas with comfortable seating, The Homework Table for students to work between classes, and, of course, screaming fast Wi-Fi.
March 2020
The global pandemic hit, and due to local stay-at-home orders, we pivoted to offer our entire music and dance programs virtually.
May 2020
The show must go on! With lessons and classes hosted virtually since the March shutdown, the ROOTS team pivoted once more to create and stream our first (and hopefully last) virtual music and dance recitals. Not even a pandemic could keep us from getting “on stage.”
June 2020
After being closed to the public since March 14th due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we re-opened the studio to the public.
January 2022
For the first time in ROOTS history, we passed 1,000 actively enrolled students in our music and dance programs.
July 2022
ROOTS Dance Academy made its mark at its first-ever Dance Nationals Competition, earning recognition for its achievements by winning multiple National Championships.
August 2022
ROOTS Celebrates 10 Years
January 2024
Launched ROOTS at Home, providing music lessons at home for customers living in Franklin & Brentwood
February 2024
Initiated a feasibility study to construct a building between our existing buildings, uniting them into one large ROOTS facility.
August 2024
Launched the Musical Theatre program with Matilda Jr. as our first performance (Nov 2024)

cool springs • brentwood • franklin

ROOTS campus

Located in the heart of Cool Springs, the ROOTS Academy Campus spans 18,400 square feet across three facilities: the Main Building, the Annex, and Studio M.

Our Brentwood, TN campus includes 15 music lesson studios, 7 dance studios with professional sprung floors, and a fully equipped band studio. Parents can enjoy four welcoming lobby areas with comfortable workspaces and seating, designed for both relaxation and productivity. The campus also offers 95 parking spaces and filtered water stations for added convenience.

TRUSTED BY…

testimonials

Don’t take our word for it. Here’s what some of our families have to say about their ROOTS experience.

4.9 Over 91 Reviews
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Allison McGavin
My daughter and I love Roots. Cozy, professional, and safe place for your child to learn dance or music!
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Natasha Stoneking
Proud to call ROOTS our home... such an amazing group of talented kids and even better leaders! It's been so much fun to see the evolution of this studio over the past 5 years = cannot wait to see what the next 5 look like!
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Lia Davidson
Amazing mentors and staff. They care about the whole child and there is nothing like the community of families at Roots! Can’t recommend enough for a welcoming, encouraging studio that is focused on excellence as well!
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Cora Eidson
My daughter has danced at ROOTS for 6 years now. She loves dancing here! It is truly her home away from home. The mentors are very knowledgeable, highly skilled, and creative. Most importantly though, they care deeply for the kids. She has made some of her best friends at ROOTS as well. They bring out the best in each other because of the environment that the mentors and staff have created and fostered.
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Michael Shinn
Jen and her team are a great group of people. They do awesome work. Definitely recommend!
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Haley Dollarhide
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
we are beyond pleased with roots academy. literally everything about this place is top-notch. every single person we’ve interacted with is kind, uplifting, and genuinely cares about the kids. we’ve done piano, dance, and the theater program — and all three have been incredible experiences. my kids are learning so much, but more importantly, they’re having fun and gaining confidence. we can’t recommend roots enough!
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Kelly Mayes
Can’t say enough about this incredible company.
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Sonja Peterson
We love this place!! Everyone is so positive and encouraging.
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Otis Rickman
RMAFEST2023 was a hit. The kids are so talented and mentors/teachers are awesome!
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Brenda Mazzanti
My daughter is excited to go every week for her piano lessons. Also love the vibe, staff and communication.
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Mike Jones
Dave is fantastic at Roots! Extremely nice guy and works really well with my son
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Beth Franklin
Roots is truly our home away from home. From the first time we walked into Roots, our daughter loved it! Everyone has been so gracious and kind and is invested in the growth and wellbeing of each child.
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Kayla Berry
My daughter LOVES roots! We had a great first semester at roots!
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Bethany Clark
My two daughters have danced at Roots for 5 years now, and it feels like a second home! This is a very special place. Roots has taught my girls incredible dance skills and technique over the years, but maybe more importantly, my girls have also learned so much from the mentors about having a growth mindset, being bold and creative and being a great teammate. They’ve been encouraged and inspired. We love Roots!
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monica M
My daughter has been with roots the past 5 years. The staff is wonderful and the teachers are amazing. The kids are super sweet. It is very family oriented. I highly recommend ROOTS! We are sad that our move brings us away from them! We will miss you guys.
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Alesha Rucci
Our experience at Roots Dance Academy has been great! We moved from LA three years ago and my daughter has been on Roots company for two years. I have nothing but nice things to say about the families that we interact with multiple times a week! The studio is super organized and the teachers have been so nurturing yet challenging. I see the growth in my daughter not only as a dancer but as a wonderful person.
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Kimberly Battinelli
Amazing management and top-tier mentors combined with talented youth equals something amazing in the making! Exit/In, Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 7 pm. Tickets available here.
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Abby Lichnovsky
James Zipfel is my violin teacher and he is amazing! I had a bad experience with a prior teacher 10yrs ago which caused me to stop playing. James has definitely redeemed that experience and I’m excited to grow. I would recommend James for anyone who is looking to learn violin.
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Alicia Crane
5 Stars!! Roots Academy is the place to be for dance, music or theatre training. The staff is exceptionally caring while simultaneously focused on advancing the talents and passions of your kiddos. My kids rave about it! Great communication, culture and camaraderie.
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Jennie Miller
My daughter has been taking voice lessons at Roots for about a month, and she loves it! Rachel is great with her and her confidence is growing! Every aspect of Roots' operation is top notch, from their facility to their scheduling software, which makes it super easy to manage your account and rescheduling lessons, if necessary. I highly recommend!
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Maria Roate
Our family has loved being a part of the Roots community : )
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Natalie Spradlin
Wonderful community of mentors and teachers and families. Wholesome and nurturing. Striving for excellence. We have benefited from being a part of the Roots family!
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Garry Hodges
Awesome place for young people, of all ages, to learn music.
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Heather Shadd
My daughter found her place, the place where she feels most her. The theatre program @ Roots is amazing! The mentors, directors, all pour so much of their heart, soul, & sweat into what they do. I highly recommend Roots!
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Jason Johnson
Our daughter has been attending Roots for several years. She has participated in dance for several years, and also did voice classes for a few years. While our daughter has Muscular Dystrophy, Roots mentors and leaders have always been very accommodating and inclusive of her special needs and abilities. She always felt welcome and cared for at Roots. As parents, we always knew that our daughter was at a safe and trusted environment at Roots. Thank you so much! Roots is a fantastic well run inclusive organization.
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Kristi Meyer
My daughter has been dancing at Roots Dance Academy for the past 4 years, and I truly can’t say enough good things about this place. As a mom, it means the world to see my 12-year-old not only grow as a dancer, but also gain confidence, resilience, and character.

The mentors at Roots genuinely invest in each child—on and off the dance floor. They care deeply and create an environment that feels like family. There’s a strong sense of community among the parents as well, and it’s clear that the focus goes far beyond just choreography or technique.

Roots has helped shape my daughter in the best way, and we’re so grateful to be part of such a supportive and inspiring studio.
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Amy Burns
My daughter has been taking dance classes at Roots for 6 years. We love the positive environment, and the amazing dance teachers! It is truly our home away from home!
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Diana Nerusceac
We love Roots Academy! All people who work in Roots are very professional, knowledgeable, skillful, patient, energetic and fun to work with and learn from. I highly recommend this place.
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Terri Walker
Roots is such a special place! My granddaughter has been playing guitar for a few years and we decided to try Roots. The staff and kids are so friendly and welcoming. She loves her teachers and the band members. Also enjoy the professional entertainers and guest speakers they have to come in to work with the kids. I feel it is more than just giving a lesson in music but life as well. We look forward to coming back after summer break.
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Shelley Clingan
This studio is wonderful. Our daughter was challenged and strengthened not only as a dancer but a person.
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News & Updates

  • OnStage Band Show Tickets On Sale NOWGraphic

    OnStage Band Show Tickets On Sale NOW

    Winter OnStage Band Show Tickets Are Now Live! Get ready for an unforgettable day of live music as ROOTS Academy takes over The Cowan for two epic OnStage Band Shows! Experience the [...]

    read more
  • Support a ROOTS Family This OctoberGraphic

    Support a ROOTS Family This October

    Support a ROOTS Family This October In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’ve created a special ROOTS Pink Love Shirt to help our community come together and give [...]

    read more
  • Father/Daughter Hip Hop NightGraphic

    Father/Daughter Hip Hop Night

      It was an unforgettable evening of music, laughter, and some killer dance moves at this year’s Father/Daughter Hip Hop Night! Every year, this tradition at ROOTS brings together [...]

    read more

  • Guitar Lessons at Your Home: What to Expect

    Thinking about guitar lessons at home for your child or yourself? Whether you’re in Franklin, Brentwood, or one of Nashville’s surrounding neighborhoods, at-home guitar instruction is becoming a popular [...]

    read more
more updates

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose which instrument is right for me?2023-02-27T21:12:39-06:00

We know making that first step in choosing your instrument is a tough one. Don’t let that stop you! We are committed to helping your student find the right fit. If you’re unhappy with your mentor or instrument, you can simply let us know and we’ll try a different option. We offer a one-time free trial lesson for all new students to try out your instrument of choice to ensure it’s a good fit. We’re committed to partnering with you to find the absolute best fit instrument and mentor!

How do I choose which music mentor is right for me?2025-01-15T16:47:44-06:00

Every lesson and class is led by instructors that we purposely call “mentors.” We take the responsibility of training the next generation seriously. Each of our mentors is not only thoroughly background checked, trained, and empowered to develop the student’s gifts and talents, but also to build trusted and reliable connections. We believe that if the students trust the environment and mentor, they will thrive and grow faster. You can meet our Music Mentors here!

Can I change my instrument or my mentor?2023-02-27T21:17:13-06:00

Absolutely. Making an instrument or mentor change is easy. Simply contact our office at (615) 804-1177 or music@rootsacademy.com and let them know what you’d like to do. They’ll be happy to talk you through your options.

If I miss a music lesson, can I make it up?2024-01-11T15:51:14-06:00

Absolutely! As long as we hear from you at least 24 hours before your scheduled lesson, you will receive a once-monthly make-up for your missed lessons.

Make-ups are not permitted for no-shows or multiple missed lessons per month.

How do I stop my music lessons?2025-04-07T09:32:49-05:00

We offer hassle-free withdrawals and/or temporary lesson holds. The only requirement is to submit your request to withdraw at least 15 days prior to the next billing cycle. Withdrawal requests must be submitted in writing using this form. Withdrawals will be processed within three business days.

How do I know which class is right for me?2025-06-03T18:43:01-05:00

The first step to determining the appropriate class for your dancer is to find the appropriate age division.

  • Toddler (ages 1.5 – 3)
  • Preschool (ages 3-4)
  • Petite (5)
  • Peewee (6)
  • Mini (ages 7-8)
  • Junior (ages 9-11)
  • Teen (ages 12-14)
  • Senior (ages 15-18)

All dancers must be the proper age by August 15th for their group.

Once you know which group is best, you can view the classes available. We have two types of classes – open and placement. Open classes require no dance experience. Placement classes are more advanced for dancers with previous experience. For placement classes, the ROOTS dance staff would love to set up an evaluation in a class with your dancer.

What if the class I want to enroll in is full and waitlisted?2023-10-19T15:55:35-05:00

If the class you’re interested in is already full, please sign up for the waitlist. This ensures you’ll be alerted if a spot opens up. If a space becomes available, we’ll reach out to confirm your interest. Only once a spot is secured for you will you be charged for tuition.

How do I claim the 30-day money back guarantee?2025-01-07T13:57:22-06:00

The money-back guarantee is based on the following requirements:

  • The student is required to attend four consecutive weeks of lessons/classes
  • Parent/student must notify the front office regarding their dissatisfaction by the third week, giving us an opportunity to improve your learning experience.
  • Refunds will be paid by check and delivered within 10-14 business days.
Is participation in the dance recital required?2023-02-27T21:05:40-06:00

Recital participation is not required, however, it is strongly recommended. We expect that all ROOTS dancers are performing in the Recital unless we hear otherwise. If you are unable to perform, please email us as soon as possible at dance@rootsacademy.com

Can I put my music lessons on hold for the summer, sports, etc.?2025-01-07T13:54:38-06:00

Absolutely! We offer a temporary hold for music lessons that allows students to keep their mentor, lesson day/time, and current tuition rate for a discounted rate each month. You can read up more on Lesson Holds here.

JOIN THE FUN!

Follow us on Social Media

If your performer is ready for a brand new story, Oliver Jr is officially open for registration.
This spring, our cast will bring this classic tale to life through acting, singing, and choreography designed to grow performers in every way.

Whether it’s their first show or their next big step, Oliver Jr is the perfect place to learn, build confidence, and shine on stage.

Sign ups are now live through the link in our bio — we can’t wait to see who joins the cast. 🎭✨

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Nov 13

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If your performer is ready for a brand new story, Oliver Jr is officially open for registration. 
This spring, our cast will bring this classic tale to life through acting, singing, and choreography designed to grow performers in every way. Whether it’s their first show or their next big step, Oliver Jr is the perfect place to learn, build confidence, and shine on stage. Sign ups are now live through the link in our bio — we can’t wait to see who joins the cast. 🎭✨

Newsies Jr. what a show 👏

From the first rehearsal to the final curtain, our students, staff, and families poured so much heart into this production. 💛

A huge thank-you to our incredible parents for all your support! From practicing lines and building sets to volunteering backstage and cheering in the audience. And to our amazing staff, your hard work and dedication brought this story to life in the most inspiring way.

We’re so grateful for everyone who made this show possible ✨

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Nov 11

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Newsies Jr. what a show 👏 From the first rehearsal to the final curtain, our students, staff, and families poured so much heart into this production. 💛 A huge thank-you to our incredible parents for all your support! From practicing lines and building sets to volunteering backstage and cheering in the audience. And to our amazing staff, your hard work and dedication brought this story to life in the most inspiring way. We’re so grateful for everyone who made this show possible ✨

It’s here!! 🎉 Our new ROOTS merch officially dropped today and we’re obsessed 👏

Available in person at ROOTS only — stop by to grab your favorites before they’re gone!

These pieces always go fast 🔥

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Nov 10

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It’s here!! 🎉 Our new ROOTS merch officially dropped today and we’re obsessed 👏 Available in person at ROOTS only — stop by to grab your favorites before they’re gone! These pieces always go fast 🔥

Everyone… we have an announcement 👀

New merch is coming November 10th.

Keep an eye out for more details! You’re not going to want to miss it.

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Nov 5

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Everyone… we have an announcement 👀 New merch is coming November 10th. Keep an eye out for more details! You’re not going to want to miss it.

🎃 Trunk or Treat this morning was spooktacular! 👻

A huge thank-you to @melissabullington for organizing such a fun event, and to all of our amazing parents, mentors, and students who helped make it happen — we couldn’t have done it without you! 🍬✨

Happy Halloween from all of us at ROOTS! 🎃

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Oct 31

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🎃 Trunk or Treat this morning was spooktacular! 👻 A huge thank-you to @melissabullington for organizing such a fun event, and to all of our amazing parents, mentors, and students who helped make it happen — we couldn’t have done it without you! 🍬✨ Happy Halloween from all of us at ROOTS! 🎃

Day 4 Throwback Thursday ⏱️ We rewinded time today and took it alllll the way back!

Tomorrow is Halloween 🎃 Wear your costumes (Morning preschool classes only). No classes or lessons after 12pm!

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Oct 31

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Day 4 Throwback Thursday ⏱️ We rewinded time today and took it alllll the way back! Tomorrow is Halloween 🎃 Wear your costumes (Morning preschool classes only). No classes or lessons after 12pm!

Day 3 of Halloween Week brought BIG HAIR ENERGY 💁‍♀️

Tomorrow’s theme: Throwback Thursday! We can’t wait to see your best retro looks!

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Oct 30

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Day 3 of Halloween Week brought BIG HAIR ENERGY 💁‍♀️ Tomorrow’s theme: Throwback Thursday! We can’t wait to see your best retro looks!

Day 2 of Halloween Week here at ROOTS and we brought out all the sunshine!

Tropical Tuesday was a hit 🌺 From floral fits to beach vibes, the studio turned into a tropical paradise!

Tomorrow’s theme: Wig Wednesday 🌟 The wilder, the better! Come ready to show off your craziest or coolest wig.

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Oct 28

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Day 2 of Halloween Week here at ROOTS and we brought out all the sunshine! Tropical Tuesday was a hit 🌺 From floral fits to beach vibes, the studio turned into a tropical paradise! Tomorrow’s theme: Wig Wednesday 🌟 The wilder, the better! Come ready to show off your craziest or coolest wig.

Halloween Week at ROOTS has officially begun! 🎃

Movie Monday kicked things off strong with characters from Monsters Inc, Aladdin, Cinderella, and more! 🍿🎥

Tomorrow’s theme: Tropical Tuesday! 🌺 Come dressed up and ready for more fun!

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Oct 28

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Halloween Week at ROOTS has officially begun! 🎃 Movie Monday kicked things off strong with characters from Monsters Inc, Aladdin, Cinderella, and more! 🍿🎥 Tomorrow’s theme: Tropical Tuesday! 🌺 Come dressed up and ready for more fun!

Meet our incredible cast of Newsies Jr. getting ready to take the stage 🌟

From bold leaders to big dreamers, each cast member brings the story to life in a way you won’t want to miss!

📅 Shows: November 8 & 9 🎟 Tickets coming soon

Stay tuned for more behind the scenes with our incredible cast — and let’s show them some love down below 👇

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Sep 15

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Meet our incredible cast of Newsies Jr. getting ready to take the stage 🌟 From bold leaders to big dreamers, each cast member brings the story to life in a way you won’t want to miss! 📅 Shows: November 8 & 9
🎟 Tickets coming soon Stay tuned for more behind the scenes with our incredible cast — and let’s show them some love down below 👇

CONTACT INFO

ROOTS ACADEMY

320 Southgate Court
Brentwood, TN 37027

MUSIC
music@rootsacademy.com

DANCE
dance@rootsacademy.com

GENERAL
info@rootsacademy.com

PHONE & SMS
(615) 804-1177

Music offers in-studio, in-home, and online music lessons on piano, voice, guitar, drums, violin, ukulele, songwriting, music production, and more! Band, ensemble and group classes are also available.

Dance offers a wide array of preschool, recreational, and competitive dance classes for ages 18 months to 18 years. Classes are available Monday through Saturday in ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip-hop, acro, and more.

Musical Theatre combines acting, singing, and dancing into one story-filled show. Classes, camps and productions are available for ages 7-18 years.

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Contact

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