Stephanie Skipper

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about Stephanie

Stephanie Skipper moved to Nashville in 2006 to sign a record deal with TobyMac’s label, Gotee Records. After releasing three projects with the label and touring extensively for five years (Winter Wonderslam, 2009, and Winter Jam, 2009, Acquire The Fire, 2010), she married her label mate (Tim Skipper of House of Heroes) in 2013 and together they began an independent singer/songwriter duo, Copperlily, in 2014. Recently, she appeared on Season 14 of NBC’s The Voice as a contestant on Team Adam.

Stephanie loves working with all types of students, but she has a special love for those who are a bit shy – “I get excited about finding and using my own voice. I grew up shy and scared to speak up, so it has been a life-long journey for me to believe that I have something to say/sing/write and then offer it to the world.”

Teaching Philosophy

Everybody has something to contribute creatively because they bear a unique spark of the divine. None other has ever had it or will ever have it. It can be hard to believe that, and often being afraid we have nothing to offer prevents us from ever trying. My philosophy is to encourage and speak into.

Where do you look for creative inspiration?
“Nature, color, texture, water, good conversations, thought provoking podcasts, music I love”

Any funny/embarrassing stories you have to share that has happened in your profession?
“I fell flat on my bum on stage at a WinterJam after party, in front of 250 people. I have forgotten my own lyrics. I’ve hit my mouth so hard on the mic that my lip bleeds. I’ve smeared red lipstick all over my face with the microphone, leaving me unknowingly resembling the joker… until my bass player told me in front of the whole festival audience.”

What’s your favorite local spot to spend time at when you’re not working & what do you do there?
“I love to sit at 8th and Roast coffee on Charlotte Pike and write my blog or read. I also love to hike with my dog, Riggins, at Radnor Lake or Percy Warner!”

What type of music did you grow up listening to?
“I grew up listening to Motown, Whitney, Mariah, Jackson 5 and thats how I fell in love with singing. In high school I was obsessed with dcTalk and MXPX and then in college discovered the Emo/Punk scene and was fully committed. I’d say today I am a hodgepodge of all those things!”

If you could meet one author, performer who would it be and what would you ask them?
“Author: Richard Rhor, can I please have some of your wisdom?
Performer: WHITNEY HOUSTON (RIP). TEACH ME EVERYTHING YOU KNOW”

What is your favorite quote?
“You can’t think yourself into a new way of living, but you can live your way into a new way of thinking”

Salty Treat: White Cheddar pop corners chips

Sweet Treat: Crumbl cookies

Fast Food Restaurant: Chipotle

Sit Down Restaurant: Barcelona

Coffee Drink: Coffee

Movie/Show: Friday Night Lights

Place to Shop: Amazon

Candle: Paddywax

Musician/Band: Whitney Houston

Travel Destination: Tropical

Gift cards I love to receive: Chick fil a, Target, Southwest Airlines

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.

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