about Josh

Josh Ashley is a musician and record producer that arrived in Nashville in 2015 to attend Belmont University. He was born and raised just north of Chicago in Gurnee, IL where his musical journey began at the early age of three. His parents recount him banging on pots and pans before he could speak, so they placed him in piano lessons at three years old and drum lessons simultaneously at four. Throughout his childhood, Josh stayed busy with academics and sports all the way through his high school years in which he took ten AP classes, and played two varsity sports!

Nevertheless, music always remained at the center; while remaining in classical piano lessons, Josh played percussion in the top Symphonic Band, piano and drum set in Jazz Ensemble, led his drum line as the center snare, and even helped start his school’s first ever indoor marching percussion program. At the age of 16, he also was introduced to music production software which solidified his love for the creative process of music. This led him to Belmont where he spent two years studying the music business, playing shows, creating music, and honing in on his skills.

In 2017, Josh dove into his production and teaching career. Through organic growth he accumulated a few in-home private lesson students, as well as a small client base for production work. He functions as a contract producer, as well as Music Director for local Neo-Soul artist, Arlana. He is also the Music Director at his church, The Chapel at Antioch. Josh’s greatest desire as a teacher is for students to develop a strong passion and joy for music as a launching pad for all of their musical endeavors.

My teaching philosophy is that every aspect of music is connected and therefore to really get it, you have to learn it all! I take a wide ground up approach inching away at rhythm, melody, theory, technique, and feel altogether, advancing all musical skills equally over time.

What are you most passionate about professionally? What excites you about your work and the contribution you can make?
“I’m most passionate about the details… the intricacies that make music so incredible… the parts that no one notices until it’s pointed out or underlined. I enjoy the freedom of exploring never ending possibilities and uncovering new ideas that take you to a place you’ve literally never been.”

What’s your favorite local spot to spend time?
“I really don’t have one, my wife and I like to go to Target and go out to eat (anywhere that sounds good) when we have free time!”

What type of music did you grow up listening to? Is it the same now?
“Classical, gospel, jazz, dubstep, rap… not one type! I’ll still listen to about any genre so long as the musicality impresses me.”

What is your favorite movie? 
“August Rush, because music really is all around us and it’s the most beautiful thing the world has to offer!”

What is your favorite quote? 
“I have not failed, I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work” -Thomas Edison

Salty Treat: Takis

Sweet Treat: Cheesecake

Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-fil-a

Sit Down Restaurant: The Hampton Social

Coffee Drink: N/A

Movie/Show: August Rush

Place to Shop: Sweetwater

Candle: Paddywax

Musician/Band: Kings Kaleidoscope

Travel Destination: Italy

Gift cards I love to receive: Dutch Bros, Amazon, Sweetwater

meet our
other music mentors
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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.

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