Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa Jenkins.
Lisa, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I founded the Dallas Academy of Music and Performing Arts (DAMPA) because I did not think there was another place like it in Dallas. As a lifelong lover of the arts, my goal was to create a place that not only nurtured talent but built an appreciation for music and performance.
I felt like there was a real need in Dallas for a performing arts school that could grow musicians, songwriters, singers, actors, and dancers, all under one roof, and from the very beginning stages. It was important to me to gather the most passionate teachers, offer the most dynamic instruction, and make DAMPA a place that has opportunities for students of all ages to grow and explore.
So we converted the top of 3415 Milton Avenue into a state of the art music school and began offering a variety of music lessons and early childhood education / “Mommy and me” type classes (which we still offer). It really snowballed from there. Once we had kids making music and building their confidence, they really wanted to start exploring musical theatre and this developed into our dynamic musical theatre program which has now had incredible runs of 5 amazing shows. Out of that, our dance program grew, and then our Conservatory & Academic Program.
Now we have 2 awesome studios, both in Snider Plaza. We have 30+ instructors, thriving music, musical theatre, acting, dancing, early childhood, conservatory & academic, and musical therapy programs all housed at DAMPA. We are literally the place to be in Dallas if you have a desire to participate and learn anything about Music and Performing Arts.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Is it ever? Of course, we have had a few hiccups along the way! When we first began, we had one Studio on Milton Avenue and we did a big push for growth…. a very successful marketing plan had us bursting at the seams for a moment, but luckily we were able to communicate with available properties in Snider Plaza and secure our amazing Studio B, which is now home to our fantastic Musical Theatre and Dance departments.
Another challenge has been finding, planning, and offering new, exciting opportunities for our talented students – some of these kids have flourished at an incredible rate — as they grow bigger, better, and their stars shine brighter, we have to be on our toes to keep them engaged, challenged, and growing not just artistically, but as human beings. For example, we are bringing Broadway artists here to work with the kids this summer, and we are taking a few students to New York regularly to expand their training and study with Broadway stars.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Dallas Academy of Music and Performing Arts (DAMPA) – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
DAMPA offers private and group lessons for just about anything “music” you can think of, including piano, guitar, violin, flute, voice, songwriting, ukulele, and early childhood development. Our talented, experienced, and thoroughly vetted faculty members strive to provide well-balanced curriculum, using the latest technology. We also have a robust library of music and reference materials, and we instruct with the highest-quality instruments.
DAMPA also offers performance coaching, artist marketing consultation, musical yoga, and an exciting array of musical theater, acting, and dance programs. We even have our own performing Tap Company, “Heart and Soles,” which works in collaboration with “Rhythmic Souls” Tap Company!
Lessons are available at our two studio locations – Studios A and B – both conveniently located in Snider Plaza. Students can also take in-home lessons, or we can even teach them via Skype.
Students come to DAMPA with a variety of learning objectives and needs. DAMPA offers Music Therapy and Social Music sessions with our Board-Certified Music Therapist as part of the Music Therapy Institute of Dallas. Each student in our Music Therapy program receives a customized plan that uses music and art to help reach non-musical goals.
DAMPA Conservatory and Academics Program includes an education program with a flexible academic schedule that is customized for pre-professional and professional students. Now, they can receive their education and artistic training all in one place in fewer than 8 hours a day. This allows the freedom to participate in professional projects, travel, and grow creatively. Our academic program is in collaboration with the university, which surpasses national standards of excellence and has been utilized by actors, musicians, and athletes worldwide. We also proudly hold the Home Educators Resource Directory Seal of Approval.
DAMPA also hosts many exciting workshops that allow students to get real-world training from professionals in the music and film industry. Workshop leaders have included artists like Broadway veteran Teal Wicks (Elphaba in the Broadway, San Francisco, and Los Angeles productions of the musical, “Wicked”) and Brianna Ruelas (American Idol Finalist and Author of “Performing Artist Pathway”).
There are a few things that I believe sets DAMPA apart – We want our students to feel comfortable and confident in their craft, no matter their age, experience, or background. At DAMPA, there’s something for everyone! Our philosophy is there isn’t an age too young or old to take classes. We have students from newborn – 80+ who are discovering new things about themselves and music. It is amazing to watch and be a part of, no matter the age of the student.
We are also very aware that the study of music and performing arts offers a vehicle for self-expression, heightened responsiveness to beauty, and great personal achievement.
It is our goal to provide the understanding and skills needed for each student to enjoy and appreciate their chosen art for a lifetime. When you come to DAMPA, you aren’t “just” getting lessons, you’re getting a partner that will help you or your child grow, build confidence, and become a well rounded human being.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
There is always something in the works! Currently, we are looking ahead to opportunities that we can provide through our Summer Camp Program. We had a very successful camp season last summer, and this year we want it to be even bigger and better! We are currently looking for a space for our very own black box theatre… more to come on that soon!
We are also excited about our Spring musical performances of Annie Jr and Pippin. We have some extremely talented young people who have been rehearsing their hearts out and we cannot wait to see them take the stage! You can find tickets by going to our website dallasacademyofmusic.com.
Pricing:
- Private instruction starting as low as $43.00 a lesson
- We also offer unlimited performing arts classes for as low as $150.00 monthly
Contact Info:
- Address: 3415 Milton Ave. Dallas, TX 75205 (DAMPA Studio A)
6705 Hillcrest Ave. Dallas, TX 75205 (DAMPA Studio B) - Website: www.dallasacademyofmusic.com
- Phone: 214-363-4980
- Email: makemusic@dallasacademyofmusic.com
- Instagram: dallasampa
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/DallasAMPA
- Twitter: @Dallas_AMPA
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
