About Us

Welcome to Charlotte Academy of Music.

Our website provides an excellent overview of the programs offered at Charlotte Academy of Music. However, the intangibles, those things that color and enliven our programs, cannot be sufficiently described in print. The caliber, the exuberance and skill of our faculty, the joy and natural progress in our classes and summer camps, the commitment to music theory  and a deeper understanding of music, the multitude of performance opportunities, access to guest composers and clinicians in master classes and so much more — these are what need to be experienced directly. We invite you to begin, or continue, your musical journey with us. We look forward to seeing you in our hallways, private studios, classes, musical theatre productions, music competitions and recitals!

our mission

Our highest priority at CAM is equipping our students, through the beautiful vehicle of the arts, to have happy, fulfilling lives. We value and support our students. In our community of families, staff, and teachers we uplift one another and celebrate each other’s achievements. We believe to fully equip our students for success, we must provide an inspiring environment, proven teaching methods, outstanding facilities, exceptional teachers, a supportive staff, and a high level of communication. Through our educational opportunities, assessments, and performances we challenge and inspire our students towards greater confidence and musical excellence.

our story

Charlotte Academy of Music was founded in 2008, twenty years after Executive Director Regina Ziliani accepted her first piano student. Having operated successful studios in Spartanburg, SC and San Jose, CA, it was evident upon moving to North Carolina that the south Charlotte area needed a school providing quality music education. In 2004 Regina opened a home piano studio in Mint Hill, which quickly grew to over 80 students and a full waiting list.

It had long been a dream of Regina’s to open a music school where students of all ages could take private lessons, group classes, play in ensembles and be a part of a thriving, inspiring musical community. As enrollment continued to increase in her home studio, it became evident that it was time to explore the vision once again. Charlotte Academy of Music offered it’s first classes in September of 2008, and has proven to be one of the fastest growing music schools in the area. In March 2009 the Academy expanded it’s facility and in June 2013 expanded again! The Academy now includes 12 sound proofed teaching studios, a performance space and spacious waiting room. CAM is proud to be the home of the SHINE Musical Theatre program and SPLASH! Summer Camps. A Founding School for the Royal Conservatory’s Music Development Program, many Academy students participate annually in RCM’s examinations.  The outstanding Faculty has grown as well, now comprised of over 20 dedicated teachers.

The Academy’s commitment to excellence, an outstanding faculty and many devoted families are what make our school unique. We look forward to sharing this musical journey with Charlotte area families for many generations to come.