I began taking piano lessons when I was in the first grade. In the fifth grade, I joined my elementary school’s choir. I continued to play the piano throughout my school years, everything from Chopin to “Purple Rain”! I sang my way through middle and high school, participating in honor choirs, sight-reading contests and show choirs. In high school, I joined the Future Teachers of America, as it became obvious to me that teaching music would be my path in life. I was hooked! I continued my musical education at Abilene Christian University, where I majored in Voice and minored in Piano. I graduated from ACU in 1995 with a Bachelor of Music degree and teacher certification for all levels – Pre-K through 12th grade.
After graduation, I taught elementary music in public schools for 7 years, during which time I was awarded the honor of Teacher of the Year in Katy ISD (Cimarron Elementary). In addition to teaching, I served as a director of the Katy ISD Elementary Honor Choir during its inaugural year. Today I am blessed to have the opportunity to pass along my musical education and experience to other children and teens who are interested in pursuing piano or voice. I am proud to be a music teacher in my hometown of Katy, Texas. I would be honored to be a part of your child’s story!
-Melanie Simpson