Why Families Across The Triad Choose Highland North Music Academy
We’ve been serving the Triad and surrounding communities for over 20 years with excellence in music education and performances! We focus on teaching music as a language.
Music is enjoyed and experienced by listening and hearing. Music, just like language, is used to communicate stories and feelings and express ourselves. We feel everyone has the voice to express themselves. When given the right tools and the right instruction and encouragement anyone can communicate effectively and proficiently through the language of music.
More About Music as a Language
165 Students and growing
18 professional Staff members
10 lesson rooms including
a high tech music studio and we are expanding
over 20 years serving the triad
As a part of music academy success with marty fort
Highland North Music Academy was Recognized with the Award of EXCELLENCE in 2026!
In a year’s time, Highland North Music has doubled its attendance in our community!
Stay Connected!Read our NewsletterPerforming on Stages Across The Triad!
Highland North Music Academy has appeared across the Triad at community festivals, parades, regional stages, and special events including appearances on FOX8 WGHP’s Christmas special, performances at the NC Folk Festival, Rowan County Fairgrounds, Richie’s Blues Club, and events throughout Greensboro, High Point, Summerfield, Oak Ridge, and Sedgefield. Through HRO and our student performance bands, students gain real-world stage experience performing for live audiences across the region.
Find YOUR seat in our next show!
Featured 5 Times in the Northwest Observer
NW Observer, now Connect 2 NW Guilford has featured Highland North Music since 2019.
Highland North Music – learn, and then perform
“He aims to teach music as a language. As a baby, then a toddler, he reasons, you learn to speak by listening to those around you, then joining in…If music is a language, we should be rejoicing (when they) hit a note, even if it’s the wrong note…”
View Article
GRINS AND GRIPES
“(Grins To) the very talented musicians from Highland North Music for setting up their stage and equipment and performing at Stokesdale’s Cruise-Thru. Loved your renditions of Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s music, which are some of my favorites!”
View Article‘Tis the season
“Since its inception in 1999, the Town of Stokesdale’s annual Christmas parade has evolved into one of the season’s most anticipated events in the northwest community…and Highland North Music will perform live music from noon until just before the parade starts…”
View ArticleStokesdale Christmas Parade, Dec. 9
“This year’s parade will be even bigger and better than in years past…will feature an increased number of participants, adding to the joy and vibrancy of the festivities…and the popular Highland North Music School will be performing live music nearby, beginning at 12 noon”
View ArticleStokesdale Christmas Parade, Dec. 13, 2025
“By early afternoon, hundreds lined the streets in anticipation of the parade….the Northwest Guilford Viking Marching Band, local dance troupes, civic groups, classic vehicles, and Highland North Music all led the way for the much-anticipated arrival of Santa Claus”
View ArticleA Legacy of Music, Community, and Performance
For over two decades, Highland North Music Academy has helped students across the Triad grow through music, performance, mentorship, and community — building confident musicians, lasting memories, and a lifelong love of music that continues through every stage of the Highland North Musical Journey.
The Highland North Musical Journey
LEARN → REHEARSE → PERFORM → GROW
At Highland North Music Academy, students build foundational musical skills through personalized instruction, collaborate through rehearsals and ensembles, gain real-world stage experience through performance bands, and ultimately grow into confident musicians, leaders, mentors, and even future instructors within the Highland North community. Featuring Little Rockerz groups, Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, and Adult bands, as well as the one and only Highland Rock Orchestra — a Trans-Siberian Orchestra tribute band.
LEARN
Students build foundational musical skills through personalized instruction, mentorship, and learning the language of music through Guitar, Bass, Drums, Piano, Voice, Violin, Cello, Flute, Brass, and more in a supportive and encouraging environment. From the very first lesson, students learn songs and music that inspire and motivate them while steadily building strong musical fundamentals.
Much like learning a spoken language, we believe music is best taught through hearing, repeating, and reviewing. By combining engaging instruction with consistent reinforcement, students develop confidence, creativity, and real musical fluency—allowing them to progress beyond traditional expectations and grow into well-rounded musicians at an exceptional pace.
REHEARSE
Students strengthen their musical skills through rehearsals, ensembles, bands, orchestras, and live performance opportunities in a supportive and encouraging environment. As students rehearse and collaborate with other musicians, they develop timing, listening, teamwork, stage presence, and musical confidence while reinforcing the concepts learned in private instruction. Through consistent rehearsal and performance experience, students become comfortable on stage early on—helping them build confidence naturally and overcome stage fright before it ever becomes a barrier.
PEFORM
Students take the stage through concerts, showcases, recitals, community events, performance bands, and special productions that give them real-world experience as musicians. Performance opportunities help students build confidence, professionalism, stage presence, and the ability to connect with an audience while applying everything they’ve learned through lessons and rehearsals.
From first-time performers to advanced musicians, students experience the excitement of live performance in a supportive and encouraging environment that helps transform preparation into confidence and passion into artistry.
GROW
Through Highland North Music Academy’s FREE Musical Ladder Program, included with regular lessons, students are encouraged to practice, grow, and progress through every stage of musicianship. As students continue developing as performers, mentors, and leaders through Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Adult bands, and the Highland Rock Orchestra experience, many go on to perform in other bands, worship teams, and even begin careers in music — with some becoming future instructors and members of HRO within the Highland North community.
Check out Musical Ladder!Home of the
Highland RocK Orchestra
Since its debut in 2006, HRO has grown into an electrifying 11-member ensemble, captivating audiences with epic TSO covers and original arrangements. Our high-energy Christmas concerts feature a blend of local talent, classical masterpieces, and a heartwarming holiday spirit.
Visit our HRO Page For More!
Testimonials
Here are some reviews from some of our clients:
Mrs. Jeanna Bridges and everyone at Highland North Music Academy are fabulous and kind. My child is learning so much, and he got selected for the Guilford County Schools “All County Chorus.” I believe his classes with Mrs. Jeanna and their weekly reminders were decisive for him to achieve this goal. Thank you Highland North Music Academy!
We have loved coming here since Christmas! All the staff have been accommodating. Our son loves his lessons and looks forward to his lessons every week! Thank you so much.
My son Grant loves coming to drum lessons. His teacher is great and they have fun learning and playing together.
Great people in a highly relaxed environment. Donnie makes lessons easy and fun and has me headed home wanting to play more! Great place!
I found Highland North online, and the band program is fantastic. The staff is friendly, and every room has musical instruments and gear. Instructors are making it fun for my kids.
HNM is awesome! Some friends referred us here, and the experience has been wonderful. Scheduling was a breeze, prices were fair, and the staff was super friendly and accommodating. I’m looking forward to all of the planned events and the great enrichment my children are receiving!
Everyone at Highland North, without exception, is kind and knowledgeable. It’s a relaxing, comfortable environment in which to learn music. Our son was immediately comfortable with his teacher, Iris, which was apparent after his trial class. Since then, he has formed a bond with Iris thanks to her kind and patient demeanor. Plus, Iris clearly knows what she teaches.
My daughter started learning guitar from Clay one month ago. She is excited to come to all her lessons and enjoys working on her “homework” in between. She seems to really enjoy Clay’s personalized song selection. Much more engaging than playing “Hot Cross Buns/Mary Had a Little Lamb” like I did when I was a kid.
Robbie is super cool with
Robbie is super cool with Max, teaching him electric guitar with great songs and easy riffs. Mrs. Iris has worked wonders with Victoria, inspiring her to take the lead and be brave in front of people.
Great school with an amazing staff that puts their soul in teaching music!
Clay is a funny and
Clay is a funny and relatable teacher who makes you feel not embarrassed to mess up. Also very welcoming environment that makes you want to come back.
Great teachers, great environment, great school
My daughter has been doing
My daughter has been doing Little Rockers for a while now and has learned so much and loves to come to class every week!
Highland North Music Academy is
Highland North Music Academy is absolutely hands down the best! They have been welcoming, experienced and genuine. Highly recommended for music lessons.
My daughter has been learning
My daughter has been learning guitar with Jack for the past couple of months, and it has been going really well.
Jack is a very supportive teacher who makes learning enjoyable. I am happy with my daughter ‘s progress so far🙂
“In the hands of a skilled musician, the right tools can produce a work of art!”
Why choose our school?
Top Music School in Greensboro
Pick your instrument
Guitar, bass, violin, piano, keyboard, voice, drums, brass, woodwinds, cello, banjo, mandolin, and many more. We offer the widest array of instrument lessons so that our students can find what’s right for them.
The latest technology
We offer our students the best tools to learn and perform with. From digital mixers, wireless in-ear monitors, the latest multi-effects pedals, and more, our students get their hands on the tools they need to learn today’s equipment and deliver stellar performances.
Proven excellence
With nearly two decades of providing lessons and performance opportunities in the Triad, our performance and lesson programs have benefited countless students and helped mold a long line of musicians in our area.
Performance Opportunities
Our students have many opportunities throughout the year to perform and showcase their abilities. From our in-house concerts to concerts and events in the community, there is never a shortage of live music for students to participate in!
Music that fits your schedule
Since we understand busy schedules we offer a wide array of lesson times throughout the week:
Mon – Thurs 1 PM – 9 PM
Friday 1 PM – 7 PM
Saturday 10 AM – 2 PM
Community driven
One of the benefits of being around like-minded people is building a strong community. Students from all backgrounds bond through band rehearsals and events. Seeing students grow and thrive in their environment is why we do this!
Safe & Monitored Environment
Highland North Music Academy provides a safe, welcoming environment with monitored facilities and security cameras for added peace of mind for students and families.
Age-Appropriate Instruction
Lessons and programs are tailored to each student’s age, experience level, learning style, and musical goals in a supportive environment.
Explore Multiple Instruments
Students have opportunities to explore Guitar, Bass, Drums, Piano, Voice, Strings, Brass, Woodwinds, and more while discovering their musical interests.
Take a virtual tour!
Come take a virtual tour of our classrooms and facilities!
Meet the Director Donnie Wright
Donnie Wright was born in Greensboro, North Carolina. His background is in 50’s rock and bluegrass music. He started playing guitar around age 14 and excelled with a passion for music. He has a wonderful family including his beautiful wife, Deborah, three beautiful girls, and two awesome grandchildren. Director formed Highland North Music in 2006 and is the General Manager and Events Coordinator of the main facility.
Donnie is a graduate of Liberty University where he acquired a BA in Interdisciplinary Education and a Masters in Music Education.
He built HNM with the importance of teaching the most fundamental element of music: FUN! “If what you are doing is not “FUN”, then “WHY” do it at all!” He believes anyone can learn music easily and in the same short time that a child takes to learn their first language; normally in just three to four years, without complicated theory nor the ability to read music! He believes music is a vital source for learning and should be regarded by every school as a core subject throughout the twelve years of education. He believes that music must become a normal part of every child’s education process.
“Sessions start at $41.25.”
GET STARTED TODAY
Yearly holidays
HOLIDAYS WE ARE CLOSED:
**NO MAKEUP FOR MANDATORY CLOSED HOLIDAYS**
• Valentine’s Day — February 14 (optional after 5:00 PM)
• Spring Break — Typically held at the end of March or beginning of April
• Memorial Day — Last Monday in May
• Independence Day — July 4
• Labor Day — First Monday in September
• Halloween — October 31 (optional after 5:00 PM)
• Thanksgiving Break — Fourth Thursday, Friday, and Saturday in November
• Christmas Holiday Break — Typically from around December 17 through January 2–5, depending on how weekends fall
Partnerships
Highland North Music Academy is proud to partner with Sweetwater! We’re honored to call Sweetwater our one-stop shop foor our psersonal and client musical needs. From instruments and gear to expert support and service, Sweetwater consistently delivers the quality and care our community of musicians rely on!
Get your gear!
Highland North Music Academy proudly uses Saluda Cymbals! Crafted by hand to your exact specifications, Saluda Cymbals deliver unmatched quality and versatility. Backed by a lifetime warranty, these cymbals are an excellent choice for all musical genres; from Jass to Rock, Classical to Pop. On stage or in the studio, Saluda Cymbals bring your sound to life!!
Grab some cymbals!
Highland North Music Academy is proud to partner with UNITY LASERS. Unity lasers are a new line of entry-level, quality, affordable, full-colour RGB laser display projectors. These laser show systems offer a comprehensive range of professional features, including amazing colours, fast and precise scanning, and, in some cases, an in-built control interface.
Light up your show!