Alexys Halstensgard

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about Alexys

Alexys Halstensgard originating from the small town of Warroad, Minnesota, Alexys has always embraced standing out from the crowd. In a place known mostly for snow, hockey, and family businesses, she found her own path through a deep passion for music. From an early age, she immersed herself in every opportunity available – participating in numerous sports, programs, and, most importantly, music activities.
Alexys sang in choir, played in band, and took private voice and piano lessons throughout school. By the age of 11, she was already directing her church choir and had even started her own jazz band, where she played drums. Her dedication led her to compete in vocal and instrumental competitions, as well as perform in pep band, ultimately earning scholarships that helped her become the first in her family to attend and graduate from college.
She went on to earn her degree in Commercial Music and Music Business from Minnesota State University Moorhead. During college, Alexys performed in rock bands, choirs, and wind ensembles, recorded her first EP, and had the opportunity to perform at PASIC in front of drum professionals and artists. She also broadened her musical horizons by studying steel pan in Trinidad & Tobago.
In 2022, Alexys took a leap of faith and moved to Nashville to continue pursuing her passion for performance. Since then, she has performed in the Broadway singer-songwriter circuit and taken the stage at local writer’s rounds at venues like Bad Axe and Sonny’s. Today, she is excited to share her love of music with students of all ages, helping them find their unique voice and joy in music!

Teaching Philosophy

I believe every student deserves to feel seen, supported, and excited about learning music. My expectations for our lessons include attentiveness, tailored instruction, comfort, open-mindedness, and, most importantly, enjoyment! But beyond these, I think it’s just as important to get to know my students as people – learning about their stories, families, what brought them to music, and what they hope to get out of it. Whether you want to dive into your favorite songs or explore how music works, you deserve the chance to follow what sparks your curiosity. I love sharing my own passion for music and creating an environment where students can fall in love with it too. I also believe in self-reflection – both mine and yours – because being aware of how we’re learning and growing helps us move forward together on your musical journey.

What’s been the highlight of your professional career?

My biggest spotlight moment so far was performing Ice Drum at the 2019 Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC) in Indianapolis. PASIC is one of the world’s premier gatherings for percussionists. My percussion ensemble from Minnesota braved the freezing weather to showcase the innovative work we had developed with our professor that semester. Sharing our music in front of such a large and passionate crowd, surrounded by so many legendary percussionists, remains one of my fondest memories.

What type of student will excel best with you as his/her mentor?:

A student who will excel with me is someone who loves to have fun and isn’t afraid to laugh along the way! I believe learning should be an enjoyable experience, where mistakes are simply opportunities to smile and try again. If you’re open to giggles, positivity, and a supportive environment, we’ll make great progress together.

What does being a “Mentor” mean to you and why are you excited to step into this role?:

To me, being a mentor goes far beyond simply being a teacher. It means being someone who can make a meaningful difference in a student’s life, beyond just the subject we’re studying. My goal is to respect and support my students as whole individuals, not just for the reasons they came to learn, but for who they are as people. Helping them curate who they are will help them learn more in the long run!

What type of music did you grow up listening to? How did it influence your artistry?:

I grew up listening to a wide range of genres, including oldies, classic rock, hair metal, alternative and hard rock, folk, indie, and pop. My musical taste was very different from those around me in my small town, where it often felt like everyone listened to the same thing. I couldn’t have disagreed more–I wanted to stand out and create music that pushed boundaries, just like the great artists who inspired me!

If you could meet one author/performer/creator who would it be and what would you ask them?

I would LOVE to meet either Bob Dylan or Paul Simon. For Bob Dylan, I’d ask what it was like to be a cultural icon? For Paul Simon, I would ask what the actual tea was with Art Garfunkel & why did they break up?

meet our
other music mentors
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Teaching isn't just about learning techniques. Our students are led by passionate and well-trained professionals who recognize their greater role in students' lives. To refine your search for a music mentor, select your desired instrument from the options below. 

THE ROOTS MENTOR PHILOSOPHY

Our mentors play a crucial role in shaping not just artists but well-rounded individuals equipped with a growth mindset, character, determination, confidence, and grit — skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

Beyond the Notes: Our Teaching Philosophy

Our approach to music education goes beyond the traditional. While we undoubtedly focus on developing your musical talent, we understand that life's most valuable lessons extend far beyond the notes on a staff.

Our music mentors are passionate about nurturing your artistic abilities and your personal growth.

At ROOTS, we recognize that music is a powerful vehicle for character development. Our mentors instill qualities like discipline, responsibility, and respect through the art of music. Whether you're mastering the piano or perfecting your vocals, you'll also be enhancing essential life skills.

Learning an instrument or refining your singing takes patience and perseverance. Our mentors are there to guide you through the challenging moments, teaching you the importance of determination and grit – qualities that transcend music and apply to all areas of your life.

Self-confidence is a cornerstone of success. Our mentors help you build it through music by celebrating your achievements and nurturing your self-belief. As you hit those high notes or conquer a complex piece, you'll feel your confidence soar.

When you embark on a musical journey with ROOTS, you're not just gaining proficiency in your chosen instrument. You're also acquiring essential life skills that will serve you well in your academic, professional, and personal endeavors.

At ROOTS, it's not just about the music lessons. It's about the profound impact our music mentors have on your life.

At ROOTS, we are proud to have mentors who are actively engaged in the music industry. They're not just teachers; they're performers, composers, and artists who live and breathe music. This unique perspective enriches your learning experience, providing insights that go beyond the lessons.

In the heart of Music City's vibrant music scene, ROOTS Academy mentors often balance roles as musicians and educators. While their occasional commitments on the road or in the studio may lead to mentor substitutions, we're dedicated to keeping you informed about any lesson changes. In the rare event of an unmissable touring opportunity, rest assured that our team will facilitate a seamless transition to a new mentor.

Join us today to embark on an artistic and personal journey that will shape you into the best version of yourself. Experience the difference of mentorship at ROOTS Academy — where performing arts education becomes a transformative life experience.

THE ROOTS WAY

Our mission is to develop extraordinary artists and exceptional humans through transformative performing arts education. Through music, dance, and theatre, we inspire creativity, nurture character, and empower our students to positively impact their community and the world.

mindset
matters

(How we Think)

We believe mindset shapes not just who we are in the studio, but who we become in the world.

excellence
matters

(What we Do)

We believe excellence flourishes when preparation and vision align with discipline and passion.

people
matter

(How we Act)

We believe in creating spaces where everyone feels safe to create, supported to grow, and inspired to excel.

questions?

If you have any questions about our program, please don’t hesitate to call, text or email us. We’re here to help you Monday through Friday, 10am-6pm CST.

EMILY LINDSEY – Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY – Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD – Music Operations Coordinator
KINSEY OVERDEER – Schedule & Billing Coordinator

EMILY LINDSEY
Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY
Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD
Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF
Schedule & Billing Coordinator