Our daughter has been taking lessons here for three years and still going strong. It's not only a place for kids (and adults) to take musical lessons but more like an environment that nurtures creativity. Other places will turn your child into a mindless instrument playing machine. This place gives artistic minds a giant playground to explore, create and grow. They allow students to not only hone their skills on their instrument of choice but also gives them the opportunity to write their own songs, try other instruments, showcase their talents at different venues in front of different people. The teachers here are awesome and talented. The director, Mrs. Lee is great! She's approachable, reasonable, sweet, generous and caring. Bottom line, I highly recommend Torrance Arts Academy! read more

Torrance Arts Academy - Does your academy get to perform at Carnegie Hall?? Ours does!!! - Art Schools Near Me - Torrance, California

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This was sad, I really wanted to take vocal lessons from them but the experience in onboarding was low vibrational and lousy in customer service. I was rescheduled several times and when I came In there was No warm welcome and she didn't even confirm my name when I went for my trial session. The instructor was nice but super limited availability and i didn't really go over much technique in the trial compared to the last vocal training I had before. We also didn't get started until about 12 min into the trial lesson which was a paid 30 min session. My honest feedback is that there should be a quick client phone call to go over details and keep background and getting to know each other to a quick 3 min elevator pitch introduction because that took up paid time. I squeezed my hope for a positive interaction with reception when we finished and the lady in front hardly gave eye contact and wasn't naturally kind or welcoming. She scrambled to get me onboarded after I prompted her to get me signed up and she grazed over fees like I already knew everything even though we never went over any details about the academy. ( I did not ) Music is a fine art, I guess I was expecting to be ushered into the process with a little inspiration... the investment didn't feel worth it for me. The next day I read some of the reviews and the responses to them and was really turned off by what I saw. Honestly the 2nd star is only because it would have been really nice to work with Liz and Summer was nice on the phone when I spoke to her, but the energy was so heavy and dense in the onboarding process it really rubbed me the wrong way and I couldn't see myself coming to take lessons for the next 6 months. read more

Torrance Arts Academy - I asked her to take a photo of me because it was so awkward in there I thought it would break the ice - Art Schools Near Me - Torrance, California

Extremely disappointed with Torrance Arts Academy after being a customer from 2019 to 2026. When we first joined the academy in 2019, make-up class credits doesnt expire. Over time, the policy changed to a 45-day expiration period. However, because there is only one violin instructor, make-up lesson availability has become extremely limited. From 2019 to 2026, we were told and emailed by the previous front desk staff (both of whom recently left) that as long as we remained enrolled and continued paying monthly tuition, we did not need to worry about our accumulated make-up credits expiring. Based on that understanding, we saved more than 15 make-up class credits over the years. After the front desk staff recently left, manager Summer suddenly sent an email stating that all make-up credits would expire after 45 days, regardless of previous communication. This was extremely frustrating, especially because private make-up lessons are often only available when another student cancels. Families can lose paid credits simply because the academy does not have enough instructor availability. After numerous emails and phone calls, owner Jane agreed on 07/03 with written email to allow half of the credits to be applied toward my daughter's classes and the remaining half to be used for make-up lessons. However, as of today (07/22/26), the promised adjustment is still not reflected in the portal. According to the front desk, manager Summer is responsible for making the adjustment, but this has remained unresolved since early July despite multiple follow-ups. It feels like the management is ghosting me. I have heard several teachers have left for the past years due to management issue, which has created additional inconsistency and scheduling challenges. Our Violin instructor is leaving as well. The biggest disappointment is not just the policy change, but the lack of communication, consistency, and accountability toward long-term families. Instead of feeling supported as a long-term customer, it feels like every issue requires repeated follow-ups and a difficult back-and-forth process to resolve. Don't bother with this academy, you will be happier somewhere else. read more

I called because I had a couple questions to see if this would be fit for my child. The lady I spoke with was nice but did not know anything bout my questions so she said she would speak with her manager and get back to me in a couple days. Never heard anything so I texted them to follow up and got a response saying we will get back to you as soon as possible. Well week later and still nothing. Lack of communication and so disappointing. Taking my business elsewhere. read more

We received a reply from the office informing us that per their policy, last-month deposits are non-refundable, but they ultimately agreed to issue a refund, which we appreciate. That said, we believe the situation could have been handled more thoughtfully. Busy families may not always recall every policy detail over time, so a simple, clear reminder at the time we gave notice could have made a meaningful difference. It would have allowed us to apply the deposit toward our final month and saved everyone the trouble of issuing a refund after the fact. We're grateful the matter was ultimately resolved, just disappointed in the amount of time and effort it took to get there. Updating rating to 3 stars to reflect our appreciation for the teachers and instruction, while also being honest about our frustration with the communication missteps upon our departure, and the lack of clarity around the last-month deposit. read more

We came here after I saw that my daughter was not growing and lost interest at her previous music school. She takes vocal lessons with Miss Aziza, and I have seen my daughter grow beautifully here. She has regained her interest in music and is becoming more confident in her abilities. Thank you TAA & Miss Aziza! read more

We had a pretty consistently bad experience with this place. My daughter daughter took singing lessons there for a short period, however there were numerous issues. First and foremost, the front desk was incredibly rude. On a number of occasions they either emailed me the wrong time for the lesson, put the lesson on hold when I had not requested it, or changed the duration without my consent and every time they took no responsibility, offered no resolution, and placed the blame on me. At one point I emailed them after but my husband and I had had negative experiences with the front desk, and I was told "that everyone at the front desk had been there for a number of years and they were not rude." The singing lesson itself was typically cut short by the teacher who was frequently late to begin but always prompt to end. When your paying by the minute every minute counts, but it seemed entirely irrelevant to the school. I finally pulled my daughter out when her teacher told her "if you don't do karaoke, you're never going to improve." My daughter is as 4 and could not yet read, and she didn't teach her any cues to understand how karaoke worked. It was such a poor and negative experience that I reached out to the school again to tell them it was feeling racially motivated, however the school did not respond at all. read more

Best music school ever! We found TAA in January 2021, after visiting a couple other local music schools that fell far short in many areas. One school told my oldest daughter her fingers were too small to play the guitar after she expressed her excitement to play. When I called TAA, they were so encouraging about her playing guitar and welcomed us with open arms. My daughter has been rocking out on her guitar ever since, and crushing it on vocals thanks to the amazing instructors at TAA, and we've worked with almost all of them over the past 4 years. My youngest daughter takes piano and drum lessons, both of which have brought her out of her shell and showed us a confident side we have never seen - we owe that to TAA. TAA offers recitals at least 3 times a year which allow the students to showcase their talent, and gain experience and confidence performing in front of a live audience. It's our favorite time of the year! TAA also gives back to the local community in several ways - for example, the students recently performed at a senior center bringing smiles, warmth and holiday joy to our local seniors. We are so grateful to the owner, Mrs. Jane, and the staff and instructors at TAA for providing a place where my daughters can show the world who they are through their music. I'm excited to watch their growth year after year. TAA is a top-notch music school, the best of the best, and a family we are proud to be a part of forever. read more

I left 5 messages, never got a call back. I called again today. Someone finally answered and said the class was full. Horrible customer service, huge disappointment. read more

I loved Torrance Arts Academy years ago, but started piano lessons this year with my youngest and it's disappointing how much it has changed. Unorganized office, no response to voicemail or email requests, impossible to try to schedule make up lessons, unclear if lessons are on-site or on Zoom, and even had a lesson when the teacher didn't show up. We were progressing along with one teacher and we're informed that he took another student in out time slot, so had to try to find another time with a less experienced teacher. Seems like they lost their 'excellence' they used to have. read more

The teachers at Hills Academy are fantastic; each has a passion for their craft and they truly care about your children. My two daughters (ages 9 and 11) have been taking a variety of classes here since they were toddlers. They've studied piano, ukulele, private vocal lessons, group choir and guitar. They also really enjoy the art classes. The recital program at Hills has helped my daughters to become more confident not only with performing but at school/in the classroom as well! I am thankful for this school, particularly the after school program which has provided my girls a home away from home while their parents are at work. All the stars for Hills Academy! read more

My son received sub-par viola lessons from Trevor. Front office was often disorganized. Had to pay a registration fee and did not get a free intro lesson. They kept changing their makeup policies. At first you could make it up with the instructor, then Jane implemented a Saturday only makeup which wasn't even for the instrument that my son played. You had to choose from chorus or orchestra etc a long list of different options but not a lesson that I pay for. My son started hating viola..I wondered why. His instructor was not helpful in correcting his bad habits not giving him fun or interesting pieces to play. He often looked upset before and after seeing my son. So glad I left and went with someone else that is helping to foster a love of playing the viola, which is what teachers should do. Don't waste your money going to Hills Academy. read more

TAA does it all, and does it fantastically. My daughter is in Kindergarten and she gets picked up every day from school. She does ballet/tap, art 3x a week, singing, and also does private piano lessons. When she is not taking a class, she is getting her homework done and I love that everything gets taken care of before she gets home. As a full time working mom, not having to scramble to shuttle your kids between lessons is so invaluable. On top of that, all of the teachers are so nice. We love TAA! read more

I am absolutely amazed with the front desk staff and Miss Lucie the art teacher at The academy, my kids had to submit an oil based painting for fund raising event . I found this academy on Yelp and I called them and front desk was so nice they schedule same day private class with Miss Lucie and with her help my kids were able to finish the painting in 2 hours which otherwise would have taken almost a week.. I highly recommend Torrance arts Academy. read more

Excellent,highest quality and caring music school ! Since our son has been at Hills Academy, he has won multiple awards in piano including best in the Nation and State multiple times and three Southwest Youth Music Festival trophies (SYMF). Hills is a school that handles the "Royal Conservatory Music Development Program" and as a result, its students are trained not only in the performance aspect of their instrument, but in regards to music history, theory harmony and all the rudiments. I highly recommend Hills Academy. It is simply the best in this area by far !!! read more

Hills Academy is a wonderful place with supportive and talented teachers. I've been thrilled to be part of the adult choir for the past several months and to have music back in my life again. I've been so impressed as well by the progress I've seen in the children taking lessons there and look forward to signing up my own boys for their music education when they are old enough. This place is a gem! read more

Hills Academy has been an extraordinary place for both my son and daughter!! They have thrived in their knowledge of music, and they enjoy every moment of their piano lessons there. Their teachers are terrific, with the utmost patience!! I am so happy that my kids are students at Hills Academy! read more

My two sons took art classes before, they loved it!! and now my three boys, 10 yr-old, 8 yr-old and 5 yr-old are taking piano lessons there. Every teacher is so engaged, and our kids enjoy a lot!! Owner Jane has been so supportive, we love her! read more

TAA is a great place to study music and the arts- Jane is a wonderful business leader and has been so helpful with helping me find exactly what worked best for me and my family. She has created a very supportive and caring learning environment, I highly recommend! read more

Very sweet ladies working the front desk. All the teachers I've seen seem very approachable and kind. My 5 year old daughter loves her piano teacher, Miss Ashley, and refuses to learn from anyone else! read more

My two daughters have been taking piano lessons and participating in the choir program for over 6 years. We have always had a great experience at Hills and have been pleased with the quality of the teachers and the program. read more

Wonderful academy that provides an array of programs, group and private lessons. They have a great group of caring teachers. The academy is large and they have their own performance hall. The director is extremely talented as I have watched her head the school's choir. We will definitely be long time members here! read more

Our kids have had private lessons at Hills Academy since 2013. They're continuing to show progress and enjoy going there. The after school program has been such a big help to our family. We love it there. Jane pours a lot of heart and dedication into Hills Academy. read more

My daughters have been attending Hills Academy for over 5 years. They have taken piano/voice lessons and participate in the choir. The choir instructors are incredibly talented and fun. They are amazing with the children. Jane Lee has always gone above and beyond to accommodate our busy schedules and match us with great instructors. Her love of music/teaching/children is apparent in the instructors she chooses and the overall operation of Hills Academy. read more

My twin boys have been at Hills Academy for 4 years (one taking drum lessons, and the other piano lessons). The boys have taken lessons consistently from the same teachers for those 4 years and the experience, which continues today, has been pleasant and rewarding all around. Jane Lee, the owner, hosts recitals several times a year which are organized and professional, and give the students a chance to perform well-perfected pieces. Everyone at the Hills is pleasant to work with, and Jane has always been eager to accommodate our schedules, hear our concerns, and encourage my children to be the best musician they can/want to be. read more

We have had a wonderful experience at the Hills Academy! The brilliant director has moved mountains to accommodate our 3 kids schedules for piano lessons with fun, fantastic, patient and talented instructors. We have also loved being part of the kids choir. Watching our little ones sing on a big stage was one of our favorite moments. The Hills Academy also has the coolest art studio which we are dying to try.... (p.s. trophies for piano recitals, whaaa? so cool! Wish I was a kid and could go here too!) read more

Great experience!! Our daughters took piano and hip hop class. The teachers are so talented and extremely supportive. They helped our girls with music and life! Our daughters always felt safe and surrounded by people who care. Thank you and continued success! read more

I've never met more loving and enthusiastic teachers! My 4 year old son can't wait for his piano lesson every week and my 2 year old loves our mommy and me music class. The atmosphere is fun and relaxed. I couldn't ask for a better place to give the gift of music to my children. Maybe I'll sign up for lessons myself!! We've taken art here as well and the projects are very creative and fun. read more

This place is awesome!!! They have cool teachers and staff. They make children and parents feel so welcome, safe and loved. They pay great attention to each students and really supportive. I take my 18 month old daughter to two classes and can not find one bad thing to say. Also a huge plus... they serve coffee!!! read more

Just a note, to date, have yet to receive the Nov tuition fee that was supposed to be refunded into my credit card. Hope the school can act on this quickly. read more

A wonderfully warm environment with talented and caring instructors. We enrolled our 7 yr old in piano here and it's hard to imagine a better curriculum or teacher for him. I feel it has the right balance of fun and structure that make it worth it. My son enjoys the songs, I like the technique/theory. I've also been taking my 3 yr old to the mommy & me art class and she LOVES it and looks forward to it every week! read more

You need to check this place out. I have my 2 kids in their music program. Their facility is bar none. They have private lessons where you can actually breathe and stretch -- BIG! They have an in-house performance hall/stage where my older one just completed her first on-stage lesson building her self-confidence and giving her a taste of what feels like being on a stage. Variety of classes and most important of all, their philosophy of teaching music/art is very unique and hip. Go talk to their director Jane and you'll notice that this place is very different and exciting. Prices are very reasonable for the superior quality of environment and teaching. My kids love learning and interacting with their piano instructors. Both instructors are highly trained from top notch music programs but equally important, they have a human side that gives the special touch in my kids' learning experiences. I'm thinking about enrolling my older kid in their choir. I've visited other music schools but this place is unmatched and I would highly recommend this place to any parent with kids or anyone looking for a place to learn music. read more