Registration is required for participation in all NORD programming. Space in programs is limited and is granted on a first come first served basis. NORD does maintain a waiting list, and registrants on the waiting list are contacted when space in a program becomes available.
Piano Lessons
Have fun learning anew or brushing up on your piano skills. NORD offers individual and group lessons for ages 6 and older at all skill levels. Learn how to read music, proper playing technique, and elementary music theory. Access to a piano or keyboard is mandatory.
Virtual Beginner's Piano Lessons Registration is now open.
In-person piano classes for youth and adults are available this summer. Registration is REQUIRED. Please fill out the registration form for in-person classes below.
About the instructors
Alton Blunt was born July 17, 1956 to Rev. Andrew Henry Blunt Sr. and Mrs. Elyria Elizabeth Darby Blunt. Mr. Blunt began piano lessons at the age of 6. Along with playing the piano, Mr. Blunt is a multi-instrumental artist; he began playing the tuba at Mary D. Coghill and McDonald #39 Elementary Schools. Also he learned and played the baritone horn at P. A. Capdau Jr. High and at George Washington Senior High School. Mr. Blunt began playing for churches at the age of 14 and became the director of a youth choir by the age of 17. This began his journey of becoming a piano and organ instructor as well. Ms. Blunt attended Southern University at New Orleans as a career student in 1976. Majoring in instrumental and vocal music and later graduating in 1990. Mr. Blunt has proudly served as a piano instructor and the senior choir director for New Orleans Recreation Development Commission for five years.
Ben Viguerie, a native of Houma, La., is a multi-instrumentalist, music educator, composer, producer, and performing and recording artist. As a pianist and singer he specializes in the New Orleans music traditions, and as a teacher he specializes in piano, voice, guitar, bass, percussion, and recorder. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of North Texas where he participated in many ensembles including the 7 O'clock Lab Band, the Zebras Jazz Synthesizer Ensemble, Jazz Singers II jazz choir, and the African, Afro-Cuban, Brazilian, and South Indian Percussion Ensembles. During his time at U.N.T. he studied under renowned Ghanaian master drummer, Midawo Gideon Alorwoyie, and completed a field study in ethnomusicology with Professor Alorwoyie and Dr. Stephen Friedson in Ghana, West Africa. As a professional musician and recording artist he has been nominated for a Grammy award and toured with national musical acts. Mr. Viguerie has been teaching music professionally, full-time since 2011.
Guitar Lessons
Want to move from air guitar to the real thing? Come and start perfectng your solo by obtaining beginning guitar skills. Learn how to properly hold the instrument, place fingers, and strike the strings. Music enthusiasts ages 10+ welcome. No previous experience necessary. Virtual Beginner's Guitar Lessons Registration is now open. Fill out the registration form below.
Senior Choir
Senior ages 55+ of all skills levels who like to sing and have fun are welcome. The Senior Choir performs regularly at NORD events in addition to senior centers, churches, and community events. New members are always welcome! Registration is free and ongoing. Register at your rec center of choice. Add For more information or to register call (504) 658-3075 or email nordccultural@nola.gov.
Programming Partners
Make Music NOLA - offers instruction on the violin, viola, cello, and double bass. The program consists of excellent music instruction implemented by a diverse staff of professional musicians, opportunities to participate in workshops with guest artists and local musicians, and community relevant performances. Registration is free and ongoing. Register at your rec center of choice. For more information contact Laura Patterson at (504) 526-4250 or laura@makemusicnola.org. Due to COVID-19, this program is currently unavailable