Who are we?

Highlands Music Academy is a thriving music school with over 350+ students in attendance each week, and 20+ teachers on staff.

But we didn’t always go by Highlands Music Academy.... In fact, we were originally called Notable Beginnings, which was founded in Louisville in 2001 by Kate O’Brien after she moved here from Appleton, WI. (Fun fact: she had a music school there, too, which she sold when she relocated to KY!)

Then, in 2008, when Kate had to once again relocate out of state, she sold the school to Kim Fanning, who took over and continued to grow the school, even hitting 100 students at one point!

But as life would have it, after having three kids (two of whom were twins!), Kim decided to pursue a new career in Occupational Therapy that was better suited to her family needs. It was a tough decision, but after nearly 10 years of ownership, she decided to pass the torch and sell the business.

And that’s where I come in! 👋 Hi, I’m Alison Suell. In 2018, I had the honor of purchasing the school. It was bittersweet for Kim, as she truly loved the school, but I’m so grateful she trusted me to carry on the legacy and continue growing this amazing community we have today.

Our Mission

Our mission here at Highlands Music Academy is to offer a supportive and enjoyable music lesson experience through providing great teachers and exceptional customer service, fostering a thriving musical community.

We believe that learning music should be a positive and enjoyable experience for all students. We are committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment where students and parents feel heard, respected, and appreciated.

Meet Your Director

Welcome! I'm Alison, the Director and Owner of Highlands Music Academy.

I'm so glad you're here!

Having personally taught hundreds of students myself and witnessed hundreds more through the academy, I know all about the commitment you're about to embark on with music lessons.

I started just like many of my students; first taking lessons in school then taking years of weekly private lessons. And through that time invested, I'm now able to share my music through teaching, creating my own music arrangements, and performing every week at weddings, events, and concerts. Plus, music is personally fulfilling, inspiring, and relaxing to me.

In January 2018, I officially took over Highlands Music Academy (then Notable Beginnings) with the goal to continue building upon what its previous owners started: always improving student experience, education, and nurturing every student's love of music.

The power of music is awe-inspiring. It can energize and motivate us, console a broken heart, make us contemplative and thoughtful, or calm an anxious mind. It's such a gift to be a musician.

I can't wait to hear the music you'll make!

Yours Truly,