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Blogs
This is where our expert teachers drop their knowledge! Here, you’ll find tips for students, guidance for parents, and inspiration for musicians of all ages and levels. From practice strategies and performance advice to updates about our programs and events, each post is designed to support you on your musical journey. We also highlight stories from our teachers, students, and community
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Meet Canisha Russ
Canisha Russ (she/her) is a Chicago-based vocalist with 12 years of study and performance rooted in R&B, Soul, Hip Hop, Gospel, and Jazz. A Chicago native with deep roots in community arts, she’s performed with UIC’s Funk Combo, Vocal Jazz Ensemble, and University Choir; after college, she joined DLC Music Chicago (a K-Pop cover band) and sang background vocals for Billboard-charting dance artist Kristine W. at Pride Fest (2021). Her musical lens is shaped by Stevie Wonder’s
The Melody Mart Staff
2 min read
Meet John Falstrom
A true bass guitar authority and longtime member of our music community, John brings decades of experience, unmatched knowledge, and a genuine passion for teaching to everything he does. A graduate of Governors State University with a B.A. in Music, John has not only taught bass but lived it—playing with regional staples like The Big Boppers and sharing stages with some of Chicago’s finest blues musicians. His performing resume spans decades and includes collaborations, recor
The Melody Mart Staff
1 min read
Meet Anokyewaa Oppong Wadie
Anokyewaa Oppong Wadie is an accomplished violinist with over 16 years of study and performance. Inspired by Grammy Award–winning jazz and classical violinist Regina Carter, she began classical violin studies at age nine through the Suzuki method, becoming the first violinist in her musical family.
The Melody Mart Staff
2 min read
Budgeting for Your First (or Next) Instrument
Eeeeek! This is so exciting! So, you’re ready to start your music journey, I see? Or maybe we want to go to the next level. We love walking people through this process because we know it can be so overwhelming and we are so good at helping people through all the fluff. The biggest question we get is: How much is a (insert your instrument of choice here)? And of course, we always say, It depends on what you’re looking to do. I know that is everyone's least favorite answer but
Esperanza Salgado
5 min read
Symphonic Seedlings
Imagine a world where tiny hands and big imaginations come together in the joyful exploration of music! As we gather, we are not just learning music—we are experiencing the magic of collaboration, creativity, and growth in ways that extend far beyond the sounds we make. Every child is inherently musical and music is a natural pathway for connection, growth, and joy. In these sessions, every note, beat, and movement is an opportunity to learn, connect, and thrive in a world of
The Melody Mart Staff
4 min read
Melody Mart Observing Juneteenth
As we approach Juneteenth, a day of profound historical significance, we at Melody Mart want to take this opportunity to reflect on its importance and share how we will be observing this holiday Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and serves as a a marker of freedom. In honoring Juneteenth, we are taking a moment to reflect on its historical significance and encouraging our community to engage in mean
The Melody Mart Staff
1 min read
Melody Mart Scholarship Resource
We've started an ongoing list of Scholarships for musicians. At Melody Mart, we understand the challenges in navigating the realm of scholarships, especially for those dedicated to the art of music. This is a growing comprehensive collection for high school students and beyond. Hover over each image to read a snippet.
The Melody Mart Staff
1 min read
🌌 Your Guide to Open House 2025: A Musical Force Awakens
Join us for an epic adventure in a galaxy not-so-far away… Melody Mart! Whether you're a Padawan just starting your musical journey, a seasoned Jedi returning to sharpen your skills, or a curious explorer scoping out the music galaxy — this Open House is for YOU. Here's everything you need to know to prepare for the most force-filled event of the season. YOUR Mission Details Report to base at any point during the mission window — our doors will be open, and the Force will be
The Melody Mart Staff
2 min read
May at Melody Mart: Events, Music, and a Special Open House! 🎉
Spring has officially sprung, and so has our calendar! This month, Melody Mart is bursting with fun—and we want YOU to be part of it. Whether you're a regular around the shop or a first-time visitor, there's something exciting waiting for you. 📅 Upcoming Events You Won’t Want to Miss 🎸 Junior Jam Band May 1st & 15th @ 7 PM Junior Jam is the perfect group for musicians who are just starting to play with others! Open to anyone who can read music and play some scales, this ens
The Melody Mart Staff
4 min read
Where to Park at Melody Mart
We have our parking lot of course but if that's filled, there's more! Your guide to easy, convenient parking in Downtown Homewood We’re so excited to see you at our shop! Whether you’re swinging by for a tour, signing up for lessons, or just coming to soak in the music, we want to make your visit as smooth and stress-free as possible—starting with parking. Luckily, Homewood’s got us all covered. 🅿️ Free Public Parking Lots Homewood offers seven free public parking lots throu
The Melody Mart Staff
2 min read
Open House 2025 is Coming
Join us for an intergalactic celebration of music and community on May 4, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM at Melody Mart! Whether you’re a Padawan just starting your musical journey or a Jedi Master of melody, there’s something for everyone!
The Melody Mart Staff
1 min read
Meet Jordan Foster
Jordan Foster has been an integral part of Melody Mart for 13 years, teaching upright bass, bass guitar, and music theory to middle school students and older. With over 20 years of musical experience and an Associate of Fine Arts from South Suburban College, Jordan brings both technical expertise and a passion for music education to his students. His musical journey began in the fifth grade on euphonium. Influenced by Motown, rock, and blues, Jordan has performed in various e
The Melody Mart Staff
1 min read
Meet Al Joseph
Al Joseph has been a dedicated music educator at Melody Mart since his mid-twenties, teaching violin to students ages four and up. With an Associate of Arts from Prairie State and violin performance studies at the American Conservatory of Music, he brings a wealth of experience to his teaching. Al's musical journey began in the fourth grade, leading to his first paid performance as a high school senior playing Handel’s Messiah. He has performed with esteemed ensembles such as
The Melody Mart Staff
1 min read
Ukulele Vibe Social: An Intentional Ukulele Space
Our Ukulele Vibe Social is where music meets connection! This community hour is designed to celebrate the joy of learning and playing the...
The Melody Mart Staff
3 min read
Recital Prep & Presentation Class: Perform with Confidence, Poise, and Joy!
Develop confidence, stage presence, and performance skills with Recital Prep & Presentation—helping musicians perform with poise and joy!
Esperanza Salgado
4 min read
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