Melena began playing piano at the age of 8. She served as an accompanist for her school’s choirs in middle school and began studying voice at age 13. She received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre and Piano Performance from Mars Hill University, and her Master Degree from The Ohio State University in Community and Educational Leadership. She has spent the last 20 years as a lessons instructor and professional musician. Some of her favorite musical theater highlights include playing The Witch in Into The Woods, Ruth in The Pirates of Penzance, and Michaela in Carmen. However, after having the pleasure of being hired as the Musical Director for a high school production of Pippin, she discovered her true passion is helping the next generation of young artists come into their own and discover the magical world of musical theater.