Josh Ashley
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.
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other music mentors
other music mentors
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.
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