About Academy

The Amelia Arts Academy is one of four certified Community Schools of the Arts in Florida. Our mission is to provide education in the arts at affordable rates to all interested persons, regardless of age, race, religion, ethnic origin, financial means or level of ability. The Academy has been carrying out this mission since 1992 through individual instruction, group lessons and ensembles, after-school art and dance

workshops, programs for the disabled and disadvantaged, creative arts programs for seniors, community entertainment, guest performances, and more.

Since 1998, the Academy has been under the direction of Richard Dickson and has called the historic Peck Community Center in Fernandina Beach home. The Academy occupies more than 5,000 square feet within the Center including seven studios, a large multi-purpose room, dance studio, music library/group piano/handbell rehearsal room, office and conference room.

Each year, more than 5,000 children and adults attend classes, participate in programs and enjoy performances at the Academy. Without discrimination, private instruction is offered by 20 teachers to more than 150 private students; in addition, ensembles and groups add another 150 to the enrollment.

In 2006, "Academy West" opened to offer programs and lessons to the communities in western Nassau County. "Academy West" studios are located in the 1st United Methodist Church in Callahan.

The Academy welcomes all ages and levels of ability at affordable rates. The past, present and the promising future witness to the fact that arts improve the quality of life and that the Amelia Arts Academy is a cultural force making a dramatic difference in the lives of all people in the community.