Cassidy Van Amburg

,

about Cassidy

Cassidy Van Amburg is a Chicago native who has been teaching high school choir in the Nashville area since 2018. She developed a passion for performing at a young age, starting dance when she was 4 years old and beginning voice lessons in middle school. After graduating high school, Cassidy moved to Nashville to attend Vanderbilt University, where she studied Secondary Education and English with a minor in Voice. In college, she vocal directed for a student-run musical theatre company, founded a student-run dance company, and sang with the Vanderbilt Chorale.

In the spring of her senior year, she was hired to teach English and build the Choir program at Nolensville High School, where she has been ever since. Over the years, Cassidy has grown the program from one choir of 30 students to three choirs with over 100 students. Her choirs consistently perform at the highest level in regional and state competitions, with many graduates pursuing careers in vocal performance or music education. Cassidy also serves as the Vocal Director and Choreographer for her school’s musicals, directing over 15 productions in her time there.

Now in her seventh year of teaching, Cassidy has returned to school for her Master’s in Music Education at Middle Tennessee State University, where she plans to graduate in summer 2026. Outside of teaching and grad school, she sings with the Nashville Symphony Chorus, performing frequently.

Teaching Philosophy

My Symphony Chorus director once told my students that “Being good is fun” and I think that summarizes my teaching philosophy well. The most rewarding moment for students is often when they have a musical breakthrough in rehearsal or performance they are really proud of. While I believe that learning should be fun, it also requires discipline and structure to reach the best outcome.

What’s been the highlight of your professional career — like your biggest spotlight moment to date?
“n 2022 was a transcendent experience. I grew up singing Hallelujah Chorus every year in Choir and have conducted it with my students, so it was already one of my favorite classical works. Also, it was my first time performing with the Nashville Symphony Orchestra which made it even more special.”

What type of student will excel best with you as his/her mentor?
“I enjoy working with students of all abilities and meeting them where they are at. Through teaching high school Choir, I have worked with incredibly enthusiastic and incredibly hesitant students. Regardless of their attitude coming in, I hope that students will leave each lesson more confident than they started.”

What does being a “Mentor” mean to you and why are you excited to step into this role?
“As a high school teacher, mentorship is arguably the most important part of my job. Being a mentor means getting to know students as people first and musicians second. I believe that if a student is struggling mentally or emotionally, they will not be their best selves musically. I am excited to be a Music Mentor at ROOTS because the one-on-one setting is best for personal growth.”

What type of music did you grow up listening to? How did it influence your artistry?
“I grew up listening to whatever my sister played in the car, which was a variety of pop, rap, rock, and alternative music. I also listened to anything that I could pick up on guitar or ukulele, which was a lot of Taylor Swift. While I am not a solo artist myself, I find that these various musical interests have helped me readily switch between vocal styles when singing and writing.”

Where is your favorite local spot? 
“Baja Burrito is my favorite quick Mexican place in Nashville (the fish tacos are the best). Also, I love going for walks at Radnor Lake because that is where I got engaged!”

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
“I always wanted to be a famous singer growing up!”

If you could meet one author/performer/creator who would it be and what wold you ask them?
“If I could meet anyone, I would choose to meet Taylor Swift. I would first ask about her song writing process and where she draws inspiration for her lyrics. (Also, I would ask which fan conspiracies are true and if there are any easter eggs that the fans have missed.)”

Salty Treat: cheese and crackers OR chips and salsa
Sweet Treat: Sour Patch Watermelon, Reeses Cups, Crumbl Cookies (no nuts)
Fast Food Restaurant: Culver’s or Chick Fil A
Sit Down Restaurant: Chuy’s
Coffee Drink: I don’t like coffee, so Chai Tea Latte!
Movie/Show: Anything in The Bachelor franchise
Place to Shop: Target, Madewell, Ulta, Sephora
Candle: I’m sensitive to smells, so something mild and light!
Musician/Band: Taylor Swift
Travel Destination: Hawaii
Gift cards I love to receive: Chick fil A, Target, Ulta/Sephora

meet our
other music mentors
Graphic

Teaching isn't just about learning techniques. Our students are led by passionate and well-trained professionals who recognize their greater role in students' lives. To refine your search for a music mentor, select your desired instrument from the options below. 

THE ROOTS MENTOR PHILOSOPHY

Our mentors play a crucial role in shaping not just artists but well-rounded individuals equipped with a growth mindset, character, determination, confidence, and grit — skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

Beyond the Notes: Our Teaching Philosophy

Our approach to music education goes beyond the traditional. While we undoubtedly focus on developing your musical talent, we understand that life's most valuable lessons extend far beyond the notes on a staff.

Our music mentors are passionate about nurturing your artistic abilities and your personal growth.

At ROOTS, we recognize that music is a powerful vehicle for character development. Our mentors instill qualities like discipline, responsibility, and respect through the art of music. Whether you're mastering the piano or perfecting your vocals, you'll also be enhancing essential life skills.

Learning an instrument or refining your singing takes patience and perseverance. Our mentors are there to guide you through the challenging moments, teaching you the importance of determination and grit – qualities that transcend music and apply to all areas of your life.

Self-confidence is a cornerstone of success. Our mentors help you build it through music by celebrating your achievements and nurturing your self-belief. As you hit those high notes or conquer a complex piece, you'll feel your confidence soar.

When you embark on a musical journey with ROOTS, you're not just gaining proficiency in your chosen instrument. You're also acquiring essential life skills that will serve you well in your academic, professional, and personal endeavors.

At ROOTS, it's not just about the music lessons. It's about the profound impact our music mentors have on your life.

At ROOTS, we are proud to have mentors who are actively engaged in the music industry. They're not just teachers; they're performers, composers, and artists who live and breathe music. This unique perspective enriches your learning experience, providing insights that go beyond the lessons.

In the heart of Music City's vibrant music scene, ROOTS Academy mentors often balance roles as musicians and educators. While their occasional commitments on the road or in the studio may lead to mentor substitutions, we're dedicated to keeping you informed about any lesson changes. In the rare event of an unmissable touring opportunity, rest assured that our team will facilitate a seamless transition to a new mentor.

Join us today to embark on an artistic and personal journey that will shape you into the best version of yourself. Experience the difference of mentorship at ROOTS Academy — where performing arts education becomes a transformative life experience.

THE ROOTS WAY

Our mission is to develop extraordinary artists and exceptional humans through transformative performing arts education. Through music, dance, and theatre, we inspire creativity, nurture character, and empower our students to positively impact their community and the world.

mindset
matters

(How we Think)

We believe mindset shapes not just who we are in the studio, but who we become in the world.

excellence
matters

(What we Do)

We believe excellence flourishes when preparation and vision align with discipline and passion.

people
matter

(How we Act)

We believe in creating spaces where everyone feels safe to create, supported to grow, and inspired to excel.

questions?

If you have any questions about our program, please don’t hesitate to call, text or email us. We’re here to help you Monday through Friday, 10am-6pm CST.

EMILY LINDSEY – Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY – Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD – Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF – Schedule & Billing Coordinator

EMILY LINDSEY
Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY
Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD
Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF
Schedule & Billing Coordinator