Written by David McCreary | Photographed by Jonathan Fredin
Making Joyful Sounds When Diana Thomas opened Joyful Sounds Academy of Music & Arts more than 30 years ago, she had no idea it would have such an enduring imprint on the community. Throughout the last three decades, Thomas has taught hundreds of students — young and old alike — to play the piano. Her academy also offers lessons in violin, guitar, flute, saxophone, voice, visual arts and more — all provided by diverse and gifted instructors. Thomas is highly regarded in local music circles and beyond. She earned a bachelor’s degree in music from Campbell University. Then there’s the distinguished list of memberships: Music Teachers National Association, North Carolina Music Teachers Association, Raleigh Piano Teachers Association, American College of Musicians and the American Guild of Organists. Thomas also serves as the longtime lead accompanist at Fuquay-Varina United Methodist Church. We spent time at Joyful Sounds earlier this year and captured all the photos you see here prior to the pandemic. Thomas was quick to show us numerous pictures of her students with trophies and medals earned at various competitions through the years. Since our visit, we followed up with Thomas to see how things have changed in recent months.
32 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020
