Rochester Academy of Music Expands Offerings with New Space
ROCHESTER — After nine years at its current location, the Rochester Academy of Music is set to expand by adding more music classes and an additional performance/practice space. Founded by the now-retired Cathy Arhelger in 2011, the academy has been located in Suite C of the Gill Center Two complex since 2017.
The departure of its neighbor, Blue Lagoon Recording Room/Palladium Studios, to a larger facility in Northwest Rochester has opened up an almost 600-square-foot space for the academy.
“We’ve seen our student base grow significantly over the past year and a half, making this the ideal time to expand and diversify our offerings,” said General Manager Meagan Cochran.
As part of its growth, Rochester Academy of Music plans to utilize the new space for group classes and performances, along with an additional private studio for one-on-one lessons, complementing the five existing rooms.
The aim is to complete the expansion by the end of the year, with a full launch scheduled for January. The academy currently employs three core staff members and 14 music teachers, offering lessons in piano, guitar, violin, voice, brass, and reed instruments for all ages. This fall, RAM will also introduce a new musical theater program called Volti, which will benefit from the additional space.
Cochran envisions the expansion as an opportunity to provide group music lessons, create a venue for recitals and community events, and offer affordable rental space for rehearsals and small performances.
“We’re reaching out to the community for those interested in a rehearsal space or a budget-friendly performance venue,” she added.
For more information, visit the academy’s website or contact them directly.
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