¡Hola, amigos! My name is Melissa, and I am from Portland, Oregon. I love visiting the city's many coffee shops, hiking at the nearby mountains or ocean, and visiting the Portland Art Museum and Oregon Symphony. Music has been part of my life for nearly as long as I remember: I started learning to play piano when I was four and haven't looked back! In fact, I loved it so much that I studied music in college. As a professional pianist, my work looks different every day: I teach kids and adults how to play piano, perform with choirs and orchestras, teach college music classes, and perform concerts.
A few years ago, I learned about a Mexican composer named Manuel Ponce who wrote around 200 piano pieces. I was surprised that I had never heard Mexican music for piano before and knew I wanted to learn more, so I applied for a Fulbright grant. It was a lot of work and I applied multiple times, but I finally received the award on my third try! A month ago, I moved to Mexico City with my husband Sam. Two days a week, I go to classes at the National Conservatory, a special school where students learn to perform, write, and teach music. I enjoy being immersed in Spanish and getting to know my professors and classmates. My work also includes visiting music libraries and practicing piano for several hours each day. I look forward to sharing what a pianist's life is like and introducing you to a little bit of Mexican music!
Want to learn how you could be a Fulbright Scholar like me? The Fulbright Program is the United States government's flagship international exchange program. Fulbrighters foster mutual understanding between the United States and partner nations, share knowledge across communities, and improve lives around the world. Learn more by clicking here!
