Amanda Weichinger is a multi-instrumentalist and educator with 35+ years of musicianship on saxophone, clarinet, flute, and ukulele. A first-call section leader and versatile doubler, she’s performed in concert and jazz bands, saxophone quartet, community band, and Bel Canto community choir, and has spent many seasons in the orchestra pit for musical theatre. At Melody Mart, she’s also shared her joy of strumming onstage at ukulele recitals. Amanda’s musical tastes are wide;

Matthew Gallagher (he/him) is a banjo player and educator with 22 years of picking, gigging, and jamming across bluegrass, newgrass, and beyond. A Denver-scene regular for a decade, Matthew toured and recorded with the jamgrass band Whiskey Tango, performed with the traditional bluegrass outfit Last Sheets on the Roll, and sat in with luminaries including Darol Anger and Grant Gordy. His style nods to heroes Béla Fleck and Noam Pikelny—blending Scruggs, melodic, and single-st

Jim Schutters is a pianist, composer, and educator with 45+ years at the keyboard. His start to music traces back to taking lessons right here at Melody Mart. A versatile performer, Jim has brought his lyrical, audience-friendly style to high-school jazz bands and collegiate choirs, to praise & worship teams, and to elegant solo sets in country-club and fine-dining settings. His playing blends the clarity of classical training with the vitality of jazz and stride, shaped by i

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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!

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