The Louisville Academy of Music has made a lasting impact on the musical landscape of the city, teaching music to thousands of students over its 70 years.
Founded in 1954 by Robert French, the Louisville Academy of Music began in an apartment on Bardstown Road, offering vocal and instrumental lessons. The Academy later moved to South Fifth Street and, in 1957, to the former home of businessman and philanthropist James Breckinridge Speed on West Ormsby Avenue, where enrollment peaked at 450 students. It was at this location that French founded the Louisville Youth Orchestra, which continues to thrive today under different leadership. French’s wife, Ruth, remains connected to the academy and school through her work and endowment, reflecting her unwavering commitment to teaching and her students.
Over its 64 years, the academy has educated approximately 11,000 students, some of whom have gone on to perform with prestigious ensembles such as the New York Philharmonic. Ruth French’s dedication to music education and her profound influence on her students have left an indelible mark on the community.
Organization’s Statement
The Louisville Academy of Music (LAoM) is deeply honored to receive the Kentucky Governor’s Award in the Arts. This recognition stands as a testament to our rich legacy and promising future, and we are thrilled to have our work acknowledged by the state, particularly as we celebrate our 70th anniversary. This milestone reinforces our commitment to honoring tradition while inspiring innovation within the realm of music education.
Our impact on the Commonwealth is profound. We employ some of Kentucky’s most talented and dedicated musicians, attracting students from multiple counties and over 50 zip codes. Annually, we teach more than 600 students and reach over 5,000 individuals through our community programs. Since our founding, we have provided nearly a million music lessons, nurturing the development of musicians who are also curious, inspired individuals. We are proud to now see third-generation LAoM students carrying on the legacy of music in their families.
We are passionate about creating a supportive environment that values growth over perfection. This philosophy allows our staff, teachers, and students to embrace lifelong learning, fostering not only musical skills but also essential life skills. Through mentorship, we provide individual attention week after week, year after year. Students learn the importance of persistence toward long-term goals, improved focus and attention span, and resilience—all critical skills for success in any field. We believe that music belongs to everyone, and we are dedicated to ensuring our programs are accessible to all through financial aid, off-site residencies, and community partnerships. Equity in education is at the heart of our vision.
We are proud of our former students, particularly Carol Webb Sortomme, who began her musical journey here at the age of five under the guidance of Ruth French. Carol’s remarkable achievements, including her studies at Juilliard and her historic role as the first female first violinist in the New York Philharmonic, inspire us all. In her recent reflection on LAoM, she stated, “The Louisville Academy of Music is an institution to be treasured and valued. Thankfully today it continues to spread the joy of music to all levels of talent, sharing knowledge, teaching discipline, and appreciation for the beauty that music adds to our lives. I am privileged, fortunate, and lucky that I started my musical life in Louisville at The Academy of Music.”
As we move forward, we remain committed to nurturing the next generation of musicians and contributing to the vibrant cultural landscape of Kentucky. Our dedication to music education will continue to inspire and empower our students, ensuring that the joy of music resonates throughout our community and beyond.