About Us
Welcome to The Real World of Music & Contemporary Arts!
We are a thriving music school and creative arts community committed to delivering top-tier music education while fostering creativity in the arts. We proudly serve adults and children of all ages, providing a welcoming and inspiring environment for every stage of the artistic journey.
We offer classes at our physical location as well as convenient online instruction, making quality music and arts education accessible to students wherever they are.
Our academy offers a diverse range of programs and services tailored for music enthusiasts and individuals passionate about contemporary arts. Whether you are beginning your journey or refining your craft, we are here to support, inspire, and help you grow.
Join our music community as we explore your artistic potential and elevate your creative journey to new heights.
We offer private lessons, group classes, ensembles, performances, and special events designed to inspire creativity, growth, and artistic excellence. Beyond music and arts education, we are deeply committed to building a strong and connected community.
Our weekly community events include community barbecues, dance events, masterminds, workshops, and volunteer initiatives, all centered around bringing people together, creating meaningful connections, and giving back to the community we proudly serve.
At The Real World of Music & Contemporary Arts, we believe in the power of music, creativity, and community. Serving others and making a positive impact are at the heart of everything we do.
Stay connected and be sure to reserve your seat for an upcoming mastermind, purchase tickets for one of our exciting events, or book a class online or by calling us directly. Classes and events fill quickly.
We look forward to welcoming you into our growing community. Thank you for being part of our journey.
Our Music and Arts Programs
Creativity lies at the heart of all great art.
At The Real World of Music and Contemporary Arts, we believe that unlocking your creative potential starts with high-quality music and arts education. As a premier school for Music and Contemporary Arts, we are committed to empowering individuals of all ages—both adults and children—to express themselves through the transformative power of the arts.
Our mission is rooted in service, integrity, and giving back to our community. With pride and purpose, we host weekly community events designed to bring people together, celebrate creativity, and make a positive impact throughout the Main Line and City of Philadelphia.
We invite you to stay connected by visiting our Events Page regularly for updates on upcoming opportunities to engage, give back, and grow through the arts.
Together, we create. Together, we give. Together, we thrive.
All of our faculty members are distinguished professionals who remain actively engaged in business and industry. Each has been fully cleared and approved to teach, bringing a wealth of expertise and real-world insight to their respective disciplines.
From fashion, music, and dance to comedy, acting, and radio podcasting, our faculty exemplify both mastery and passion. They are dedicated educators who take pride in cultivating talent, inspiring creativity, and welcoming every student with warmth and genuine enthusiasm.
About Us
Our School
Our Classes and Departments
Where artistry meets excellence.
Our academy offers an inspiring range of departments and classes, thoughtfully curated to cultivate creativity, mastery, and self-expression. Each program is guided by distinguished faculty who bring passion, professionalism, and real-world expertise to every lesson.
🎵 Music Department
The heart of our academy, where sound becomes soul. Our music programs are designed for aspiring artists of all levels — from beginners to seasoned performers — who seek to deepen their craft and discover their unique voice.
Private Lessons
Voice Department
Strings Department
Keys Department
Bass Department
Horns Department
Percussion Circle &
Drums Department
International Music Department
Specialized Music Studies
Music Analytics
Ear Training & Harmony
Song Writing
Reading & Composition
Music History
Music & The Brain
Physical Body
Music Therapy
International Nursery Rhymes
Community Events
Where creativity and connection flourish beyond the classroom.
Mothers & Mimosas
Naj Children’s Books
(Adults) Salsa, Merengue Bachata Night
( Adults) Ballroom Dancing Night
(Adults) Halloween Dance for ages 21 and up Introducing Chef Tef
Opening Outdoor Movie Theater Night.
Roast Marshmallows by the Fire (BYOB)
🎧 Music Technology
Where innovation meets rhythm. Our technology programs explore the cutting edge of modern music creation and performance.
DJ Ensemble
Music Production and Engineering
Music Technology levels 1, 2, 3
Beats Ensemble
💃 Dance Department
A celebration of movement, energy, and expression. Our dance programs unite classical discipline with contemporary flair, creating a stage where every dancer shines.
Sugar Plum Fairies
Ballet Tap Dancing
Hip Hop Future Stars
Pop Dance Ensemble
Disney Ensemble Dance Ensemble
Michael Jackson Dance Ensemble
Jazz Dance Ensembles
Salsa, Merengue & Bachata
👗 Fashion Design Department
Where imagination takes form. Students learn the art of design, styling, and creation — transforming vision into wearable art.
🎨 Art Department
A haven for expression through color, form, and creativity. Here, students explore diverse techniques and mediums, guided by a philosophy of beauty, balance, and innovation.
🎶 Ensemble Department
Our ensembles bring artists together to collaborate, perform, and create magic through music.
Each group celebrates a distinct style, offering a space where artistry and community unite.
Disney Ensemble
R&B Ensemble
Pop Ensemble
Broadway & Musical Theatre Ensemble
Hip Hop Ensemble
Rock Ensemble
Jazz Ensemble
International Music Ensemble
🎓College Planning
SAT & ACT Tutoring
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PSAT Preparation
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College Essay Writing
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College Application Assistance
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Scholarship Research & Essay Writing
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Resume & Cover Letter Writing
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Interview Preparation
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Financial Literacy for Teens
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Public Speaking
Meet Our
CEO
A Fearless
Force of
Vision & Artistry
Meet Laura Connelly
CEO, Founder & Head of the Vocal Department
Laura Connelly, our CEO, educator, artist, and passionate mentor whose lifelong dedication to music serves as an inspiration throughout our academy.
A proud alumna of Berklee College of Music, Laura's musical education has been shaped by an extraordinary collection of artists, educators, producers, and industry professionals.
Her musical journey began under the guidance of Rita Cavelle, who studied at the London Conservatory in the United Kingdom.
During her time at Berklee, Laura was mentored by Kenwood Dennard, an accomplished musician who has performed and worked with legendary artists including James Brown, Miles Davis, and Quincy Jones. She also studied for years under Kudisan Kai, renowned vocalist and longtime backup singer for Chaka Khan.
Laura's education extends beyond vocal performance. Her experience has provided her with valuable insight into the business, professional, and creative sides of the music industry. She has worked alongside industry professionals including Tony Camillo, a respected record producer and music executive associated with Motown and known for his work with Gladys Knight & the Pips.
Following Berklee, Laura continued her musical journey in Los Angeles, where she studied and was mentored by Oren Waters, whose extensive career includes work with artists such as Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, and Neil Diamond. She also trained under Frank Annuziata, a former A&R executive with Viper Records.
More Than Vocal Training
Laura brings students an education that goes beyond simply learning how to sing.
Through her mentorship, students are introduced to the fundamentals of vocal technique, stage presence, artistic development, performance, audition preparation, recording, and the professional realities of today's music industry.
Whether you are preparing for an audition, developing your identity as an artist, pursuing professional performance, or simply discovering your voice for the first time, our program is designed to help you grow, express yourself, and reach your fullest potential.
Building the Next Generation of Artists
In addition to serving as CEO and leading The Real World of Music & Contemporary Arts, Laura continues to develop her own career as a recording artist.
She is currently working on her highly anticipated debut album, Fearless, in collaboration with a premier recording team in New York City.
Fearless represents another chapter in Laura's journey as an artist—one rooted in courage, creativity, perseverance, and the belief that it is never too late to pursue your dreams.
Upon its official release, Fearless will be made available through major digital music platforms, with additional release details to be announced.
Your Voice. Your Story. Your Future.
Whether you're a beginner, an aspiring professional, or an experienced vocalist looking to take your artistry to the next level, The Real World of Music & Contemporary Arts is here to help you find your voice—and give it the confidence to be heard.
Reserve Your Seat Today
Upcoming Events & Performances
Get in Touch
Have Questions?
Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries or information.