Are we the RIGHT Performing Arts Academy for you? 1. Mix Voice Technique. We are the only performing arts school in Connecticut Certified to teach Mix Technique by International Voice Teachers of Mix. The benefit of learning how to sing with the Mix Technique is the ability to master many styles of music and have a full range with no breaks. From Opera to Rock, our voice lessons will train your voice to perform in a healthy and versatile way in order to tackle whatever style of music you would like to sing.
2. A full package. We offer the best technique for each instrument we teach (including voice), but we also offer classes on how to actually utilize those techniques in a performance setting. Reading the audience, delivering the song, connecting to the lyrics, microphone technique and more.
3. A comfortable parent's lounge for our clients. Instead of waiting in the same room where your child is having his/her lesson, our clients enjoy a spacious, professional parent's lounge with a comfortable couch, 55 in LED TV always playing interesting musicals, movies and concerts, Free Wi-Fi, magazines and bottled water, coffee and tea service. Or if you prefer you can sit in on their lesson at anytime.
4. Month to Month lessons. The Academy does not require SEMESTER MINIMUMS for lessons. Every student here is on a month-to-month basis. If you are ready to start, you have nothing to lose as we only want students who truly want to be here and we will NOT commit you to a long term contract.
5. A proven track record of EXCELLENCE. The Academy has proven track record of offering quality voice, piano, guitar, acting and performance lessons in New Haven, CT year round. Our full time mission is developing performers through out CT to reach their utmost potential.
6. Award Winning Students!!! We feel so proud to give our students the necessary training they need to use in any kind of performance they desire. Our training allows them to continue to shine as number one and succeed in many competitions throughout CT and the entire U.S.!
7. Open 7 Days a week We know how busy your schedule is. Giving you a wide range of days and hours to choose from, will make it really easy for you to book a lesson at our academy. That is why we offer the longest hours of operation in New Haven, CT.
8. NO BETTER place to take lessons. You will be studying with teachers featured on: American Idol WTNH Channel 8 CT Style Celebrity Cruises Azamara Cruises The Greenwich Wine and Food Festival 2012/2013/2014.
9. Fight boredom! Voice, piano, guitar, acting and performance lessons are taught in an innovative and fun way to keep students learning and growing, whether you are a young child or an adult. We use various types of media to spark creativity and keep lessons interesting as you learn your instrument.
10. Learning to play an instrument can help with schoolwork skills. Patient, loving teachers work with students to develop good practice skills on their instruments that can also help boost grades in school. Learning to play an instrument has been shown to help develop spatial intelligence in children.
11. Learn foundational skills. We incorporate music theory, ear training, improvisation, and sight reading into your piano and guitar lessons, right along with your new performance skills.
Served areas
- New Haven, East Haven, North Haven, West Haven, Guilford, Clinton, Madison
Associations and certifications
- Accredited through International Voice Teachers of Mix www.ivtom.org
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Services
Since 2013 we have helped thousands of students ages 4 to adult begin and continue on their artistic journey. We know you are busy and understand the challenge of finding the right school for you or your child. That is why we go above and beyond to find the best music, acting, and dance teachers in CT, so you don't have to.
An annual registration fee of $50 per student ($85 max per family) is due at the time of registration. This fee is non-refundable. Your registration fee reserves your instructor(s) and time slot(s) each week. Lessons will be held the same day and time each week. Attending your scheduled lesson on time each week is critical to the process of learning.
At NHAOPA we understand how confusing it can be trying to find the right place for your child and the most affordable for your family. We truly believe that Summer Theatre should be a positive experience that your child will never forget. Our staff continues to make sure we offer the BEST education for your child and the BEST value to you and your family!
What is Broadway Bound Summer Musical Theatre Intensive? BBMTI is an award winning three week pre-professional conservatory workshop for ages 13-18 that prepares students to become triple threat performers, all while having fun and building life long relationships! Why Broadway Bound? This program will help your child/TEEN build essential professional performing arts skills for their future, along with performing in a broadway style show highlighting what they have learned.What will you learn? During week one, students will work on honing their performing arts skills.
People
New Haven Academy of Performing Arts
Master Vocal Coach/Artistic Director/Founder
International Vocal Artist and Coach Billy DiCrosta has been performing professionally for for over 28 years. The youngest of a large Italian American family of six. Billy started performing at the early age of 7 and fell in love with being on stage and touching people's hearts through music. He majored in Vocal Performance and Acting at Western CT State University until transferring to The Hartt School of Music to study Musical Theatre.
He has had the joy of playing such roles as Tony in West Side Story , Mike in A Chorus Line , The Baker in Into The Woods and many more. He also had the great honor of singing at The White House for the Clinton Family in 1997. From 2006 to 20012 he had the privilege to perform internationally on luxury cruise lines as a lead production vocalist and a head line entertainer. During his time at sea he was vocal captain for his cast and gave private vocal instruction to them as well while focusing on the art of Mix.
In 2013 he opened the doors to Billy DiCrosta Vocal Studio and became the only Full Member Teacher of International Voice Teachers of Mix www.ivtom.org in the State. In just a short time Billy has been turned into CT's most sought after Vocal Coach. Students travel as far as Hartford, Danbury, and Stamford and those who can't travel enjoy lessons via Skype all to find the vocal freedom that can only be found in his studio. His students range from beginners to professionals and children to adults. Students have found that in just one lesson ,they have learned more and found more freedom in their voice then they have after studying with their former teachers , some of which have been with them for 10 plus years. Billy is known for his unique teaching approach with his light hearted, passionate personality students learn to have fun while training. Thanks to the vocal freedom his students achieve they are able to get leading roles in shows, win competitions and work as professional vocalists. Due to the rapid growth of his studio and his drive for always being the best Billy has founded New Haven Academy of Performing Arts. He is also very proud to be the Premiere Vocal Coach/Judge for www.canusingusa.com, a wonderful singing competition organized by JN Productions, an organization devoted to help all those in need.
He has had the joy of playing such roles as Tony in West Side Story , Mike in A Chorus Line , The Baker in Into The Woods and many more. He also had the great honor of singing at The White House for the Clinton Family in 1997. From 2006 to 20012 he had the privilege to perform internationally on luxury cruise lines as a lead production vocalist and a head line entertainer. During his time at sea he was vocal captain for his cast and gave private vocal instruction to them as well while focusing on the art of Mix.
In 2013 he opened the doors to Billy DiCrosta Vocal Studio and became the only Full Member Teacher of International Voice Teachers of Mix www.ivtom.org in the State. In just a short time Billy has been turned into CT's most sought after Vocal Coach. Students travel as far as Hartford, Danbury, and Stamford and those who can't travel enjoy lessons via Skype all to find the vocal freedom that can only be found in his studio. His students range from beginners to professionals and children to adults. Students have found that in just one lesson ,they have learned more and found more freedom in their voice then they have after studying with their former teachers , some of which have been with them for 10 plus years. Billy is known for his unique teaching approach with his light hearted, passionate personality students learn to have fun while training. Thanks to the vocal freedom his students achieve they are able to get leading roles in shows, win competitions and work as professional vocalists. Due to the rapid growth of his studio and his drive for always being the best Billy has founded New Haven Academy of Performing Arts. He is also very proud to be the Premiere Vocal Coach/Judge for www.canusingusa.com, a wonderful singing competition organized by JN Productions, an organization devoted to help all those in need.
Reviews (32)
Random Idiot
Jan 18, 2022
Nhaopa has changed my life even if I've only been there for a few years now. It has taught me how to become a better dancer, actress, and singer just in these past few years alone. The teachers genuinely care about every single student that goes here. The first year I had believed that I would hate it because I never had any experience with theater, only dance, yet the first day I went I felt welcomed by everyone immediately.
It's like a second home to me now, a second family if you will. You get to grow and improve with people that care about you and that you can trust. It has helped me gain confidence while going on the stage because everyone always being supportive of one another. You truly become a family with the people that you meet here!
It's like a second home to me now, a second family if you will. You get to grow and improve with people that care about you and that you can trust. It has helped me gain confidence while going on the stage because everyone always being supportive of one another. You truly become a family with the people that you meet here!
Rosa Ortiz
Jun 25, 2021
Today was my consultation and I was extremely nervous and anxious. Neil, one of the owners, came outside to meet me and showed me around. I was immediately put at ease by his warm inviting personality and positive energy. My instructor Sergio was extremely patient with me and took his time walking me through the exercises. Billy, the other owner, was wonderful with the sign up process and all three gave me great hope that I can finally realize my dream of learning to sing. I am so SUPER excited
Yolanda Russell
Jun 23, 2021
Yolanda Russell
Jun 09, 2021
Cheryl
May 05, 2021
Our daughter joined the summer camp program 3 years ago, the experience was so amazing that she did not want to leave. We have watched her grow in confidence and talent each year while developing friendships that have supported and encouraged her every step of the way. Billy, Neil and the entire staff have embraced our daughter's individuality since her first day.
They recognized skills she didn't know she had, encouraged her to work towards them which taught her to exhibit a new found confidence that will help her to be successful in any field on or off the stage. Thank you so much for creating an amazing environment that welcomes, embraces, and nurtures each child for their unique individuality. Our daughter has learned life long skills, created friendships that will last a lifetime, all while having a blast at the same time.
They recognized skills she didn't know she had, encouraged her to work towards them which taught her to exhibit a new found confidence that will help her to be successful in any field on or off the stage. Thank you so much for creating an amazing environment that welcomes, embraces, and nurtures each child for their unique individuality. Our daughter has learned life long skills, created friendships that will last a lifetime, all while having a blast at the same time.
Jo-Mel L. McPhail
Apr 29, 2021
My Missy started at NHAOPA in late 2015 on a whim and never looked back. She's learned and grown so much all while having fun and building lasting, meaningful relationships. Through this pandemic, Billy, Neil and the teachers at NHAOPA have managed to navigate ever changing rules and regulations to keep the kids safe and allow them to do what they love.
They've allowed for some normalcy for my daughter. She's been able to continue classes, vocal lessons and summer intensive (both virtually and in person). Most importantly, they've allowed her the opportunity to be with her friends in a safe space. I've always said that my daughter not only found her passion at NHAOPA, she found her people.
They've allowed for some normalcy for my daughter. She's been able to continue classes, vocal lessons and summer intensive (both virtually and in person). Most importantly, they've allowed her the opportunity to be with her friends in a safe space. I've always said that my daughter not only found her passion at NHAOPA, she found her people.
Jess
Apr 16, 2021
Sherry Smith Baker
Mar 23, 2021
Too often, parents seem to need to choose between safe, fun programs, or quality training. No such choice is necessary at NHAOPA. Billy, Neil, and their staff provide professional training using best practices, while creating a safe, fun, unwaveringly encouraging environment in which the students flourish. NHAOPA is worth every financial and logistical sacrifice.
I KNOW my child is loved and valued while honing his craft. More importantly, HE knows it too, and that is invaluable. The staff at NHAOPA are committed to professionalism and excellence; moreover, they are fiercely passionate about the education and well-being of their students. I cannot say enough about them.
I KNOW my child is loved and valued while honing his craft. More importantly, HE knows it too, and that is invaluable. The staff at NHAOPA are committed to professionalism and excellence; moreover, they are fiercely passionate about the education and well-being of their students. I cannot say enough about them.
Marcella Goodwin
Feb 26, 2021
Vanessa Smith
Feb 14, 2021
Billy goes out of his way to make sure you are happy. Soon as you walk through the door you are greeted. No one is treated differently. The love and caring atmosphere is given to everyone. The needs of the student is first and foremost. I recommend this school to all who have a talent in music, theatre, singing and dance.
Sammie Tucker
Feb 08, 2021
Billy & Neil make sure to go out of their way to make everyone who walks through their doors feel important, happy, healthy, safe and with a complete sense of belonging and self! The staff is genuine, I cannot begin to express the difference that they have made in my sons life. He is a different kid since he started attending classes at NHAOPA. This school is a beautiful and wonderful place!
Sofia Manzo
Dec 22, 2020
NHAOPA is such an awesome and loving place. They helped me to improve my acting and singing skills while still being able to have fun and make friends with likeminded people. This past summer was my first NHAOPA show and it truly was the best summer of my life and I never thought it would be. All the kids that go there are like family to me and they are all so accepting, the first day I walked in expecting to be lonely for the rest of the week but almost right away the kids invited me in and it only took about a half an hour and we were close friends! NHAOPA is not only teaching students to be professional with their craft but also teaching them valuable life lessons on how to be kind.
Katelyn Marie Downey
Sep 22, 2020
Amazing teachers in-person and virtually!! I first learned how to sing mix from Billy, and now my husband takes lessons with him.
Billy really knows the technique, and can help ANY singer at ANY level! He only hires the best, so I’m sure the other teachers are amazing as well! If you want to study and progress with your voice, learn mix @ NHAOPA!
Virtual lessons are super easy too if you can’t do in person 😊 my husband does virtual lessons once a week with Billy, and he’s really making great progress (we sing together in a band, and I can tell that the training is really helping Patrick open up and find his voice). Highly recommend!!
Billy really knows the technique, and can help ANY singer at ANY level! He only hires the best, so I’m sure the other teachers are amazing as well! If you want to study and progress with your voice, learn mix @ NHAOPA!
Virtual lessons are super easy too if you can’t do in person 😊 my husband does virtual lessons once a week with Billy, and he’s really making great progress (we sing together in a band, and I can tell that the training is really helping Patrick open up and find his voice). Highly recommend!!
Raul Marcella Goodwin
Aug 17, 2020
Tracey Harding
Mar 18, 2020
NHAOPA and the staff go beyond all expectations! My daughter has been in the program for almost 1yr and it has quickly become her favorite place to be. When COVID 19 became a concern the staff quickly adapted and offered online lessons, something they do on a regular basis but expanded to fit the needs of the children at this time. My daughter LOVES her online classes.
They have given her a sense of normalcy and have made it easier to adapt to her new day to day. The staff has spared nothing and the classes are as informative, productive and fun as they in person. Honestly there aren't enough words to describe how incredible NHAOPA is!
They have given her a sense of normalcy and have made it easier to adapt to her new day to day. The staff has spared nothing and the classes are as informative, productive and fun as they in person. Honestly there aren't enough words to describe how incredible NHAOPA is!
Sue Ponzillo
Feb 15, 2020
David Carey
Dec 08, 2019
Debbie Renker Chevalier
Feb 25, 2019
My son is new to NHAOPA. He is a vocal student of Ms. Tara - who he loves! Tonight was his, thus my, first show. It was AWESOME - so enjoyable!! I was so proud to have my child part of something so wonderful. What Billy and Neil have created here is beautiful. They and their carefully selected and trained teachers/coaches are assisting these children and young adults in developing not only their talents, but their confidence as well. THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! God bless you all and all that you do!! 💕
Can’t wait to sign Zander up for the Rock Band 🎸🎤🎹 and Musical Theater!!
Can’t wait to sign Zander up for the Rock Band 🎸🎤🎹 and Musical Theater!!
Paula Forni
Dec 12, 2017
This school is truly amazing. Billy, Neil and their staff work wonders with all the children who attend this school. All their shows area fabulous!! If there are any parents out there looking for some place to send their children for voice and/or acting lessons, check this school out. Your children will love it and you will fall in love with Billy and Neil. I certainly did.
Nicole Stackpole
Aug 14, 2017
This was my kids first summer with NHAOPA and they absolutely loved it!!! They both just performed in Golly Gee Whiz and James and the giant peach and my husband and I were so impressed with what our children learned this summer! Billy and Neil were fantastic! We are already looking into signing them up for the fall!
Moriah S.
Jun 04, 2017
Absolutely love NHAPO, top notch all the way! My daughter has always enjoyed singing and has been in school chorus since kindergarten. On the advice of her chorus teacher we started looking for a place to take voice lessons. I came across NHAPO and the reviews were amazing and we gave it a try. She has absolutely loved every second of her lessons and shows. Billy and Neil are absolutely amazing, I couldn't ask for a better voice coach for my daughter!
She has made so much progress, and is always looking forward to her weekly lesson. Neil encourages her to do her absolute best and boy has it paid off! I truly cannot explain how wonderful NHAPO is, if you're looking for a place for any type of singing/theatre/ instrument lessons NHAPO is the way to go! You will not be disappointed!
She has made so much progress, and is always looking forward to her weekly lesson. Neil encourages her to do her absolute best and boy has it paid off! I truly cannot explain how wonderful NHAPO is, if you're looking for a place for any type of singing/theatre/ instrument lessons NHAPO is the way to go! You will not be disappointed!
Tina L.
Oct 22, 2014
Julius Vasilescu
This Academy changed to course of my life and I could not be happier with the results I have gotten!! I only joined in August of 2017 and my experience has far exceeded my expectations. Neil Fuentes is my singing teacher and he helped me unlock a voice I didn’t know I had. If I could give this review 100 stars I would, it is and exceptional school for kids of all ages and even adults!
Richard Wethly
Mari Shields
Christy Hayden Lamberton
My 9 year old daughter attends NHAOPA and loves it! She looks forward to her weekly voice lessons with Neil and has loved all of the seasonal productions. She also attended the summer camp program and is excited to go again next summer! Highly recommend for any one with a child who is interested in performing arts.
Flavia Abely
Laura Palmieri
My daughter has been a student at New Haven Academy of Performing Arts since August. She just performed in her first show. This school has exceeded my every expectation. Neil, Billy and Stephanie go above and beyond to make sure every child feels special and comfortable there. My daughter has never been happier. I highly recommend this school to any child or adult interested in singing, acting or instrumental lessons.
Lindsay Manciero
Migdalia Torres
Monique Kearney Palmer
My daughter loves everything about this program. Billy and Neil are wonderful and they love the children and the parents like family. My 10 year old has come out of her shell and Stephanie her vocal coach has helped her truly find her voice!! Thank you all for helping my little lady shine while having fun.
Dodie Milardo
OMG! I have no idea where to start. The performances/talent by the students, staff and “moms” were beyond excellent. I believe there are many Academy Awards in the futures of these folks. And the enthusiasm was so fabulous, it made me tingle with excitement for what they have all achieved; and in such short periods of time. If I had a child who wanted to pursue a career in the performing arts, I would definitely sign them up here. This is where dreams are skilled and perfected! You guys ROCK!!! Much success to you!