Melanie M  
Instruments: Piano, Voice, Accordion, Keyboard
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, Folk, Country, Gospel, Musical Theater, Latin, Showtunes, Swing, New Age, Avant-garde

I've taught music, theater and dance for most of my life. I began teaching accordion and dance lessons at the age of 13. I later added piano, voice, and theater students after graduating from the Conservatory of Music in Kansas City, MO. I've worked for many years as a professional singer, dancer, actor, instrumentalist all over the United States, but primarily in Kansas City, MO, Las Vegas, NV, and New York, NY. I bring knowledge as well as performance to my students. I expect students to be dedicated to their instrument and work hard to improve weekly. MadCo Studios provides many outlets for students of all ages to perform and grow. I'm a member in good standing of the performing unions: AEA, SAG/AFTRA, and AGVA.

For all beginning piano students ages 5 to 13, I usually start with the Alfred D'Auberge Piano Course, Bk 1 and Notespeller Bk 1. Students then graduate to the Faber/Randall Piano Adventures Series, Course and Theory. I add the Dozen A Day exercise books when they start this level, beginning with the Prep Book. I also supplement with music that is a little harder and fun for the students to expand their learning and skills. Adult and older students graduate to the Accelerated Piano Student books through Faber/Randall. I ask all young students to purchase a practice record book so assignments are written down and practice time is recorded weekly. Accordion students begin with the Palmer & Hughes Accordion method. Alternate music is supplied to make the experience more enjoyable. Accordion and piano Theory books are also used. Voice students work on exercises, breathing and vocal. Depending on the students interest, Broadway to classical, I assign 2 songs per week to present at the next lesson.