Teacher Profile: Ashton Laurent

About Ashton Laurent

Ashton Laurent is a violist and music educator originally from Pine Bluff, Arkansas. He began his musical journey on violin in the first grade before transitioning to viola in the fourth grade under the instruction of Mrs. Christie Bonds. He continued his musical studies at the University of Arkansas, earning a Bachelor of Music in Music Education.

During his time at the University of Arkansas, Laurent was an active member of the Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, Medaris String Quartet, and Inspirational Chorale. His orchestral experience also includes performing as a section violist with the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas Philharmonic Orchestra. As a chamber musician, he has cultivated a deep appreciation for collaborative music-making and the expressive possibilities of the viola.

Currently, Laurent serves as the Orchestra Director at Ruskin High School in Kansas City, Missouri. As an educator, he is committed to cultivating inclusive, student-centered musical environments where students feel a genuine sense of belonging. He believes music education should extend beyond technical proficiency, encouraging students to develop confidence, explore their musical identities, and discover the cultural and historical significance of the music they perform.