Bio
Melanie Turner is a multifaceted talent whose passion for music and education has shaped a career spanning over 32 years. With a background as a certified elementary teacher, Melanie brings her expertise in engaging learners of all ages to her roles as a singer, songwriter, and musician.
Melanie's performances are a celebration of the spirited sounds of mountain music. Armed with her banjo, guitar, and the mountain dulcimer, she weaves together a tapestry of melodies.
In her interactive performances, Melanie encourages sing-alongs, call-and-response songs, and lively audience participation, drawing listeners into the rich heritage of mountain music. Whether you're tapping your toes to traditional tunes or harmonizing with the melodies, Melanie's captivating musical experiences promise to leave a lasting impression on all who attend.
This approach to music goes beyond mere performance; it's about creating connections and fostering a sense of community. Through hands-on workshops, residencies, and performances, she invites individuals to immerse themselves in the joy of music-making, regardless of age or background.
Potential Residency Project
Sample Programs designed to be interactive, educational, and enjoyable, providing students with an introduction to various aspects of music and musical instruments.
Introduction to Bluegrass Music
Students will dive into the rich musical tradition of Kentucky by exploring the history and characteristics of Bluegrass Music. The program includes reading a children's book about Bluegrass Music and demonstrations with traditional instruments such as banjo, guitar, dulcimer, mandolin, fiddle, harmonica, and washtub bass, showcasing their unique sounds.
Songwriting
This creative workshop encourages students to express themselves by writing their own song. The session can be tailored to personal interests or linked to academic subjects. Activities include: Brainstorming sessions to generate ideas for song themes and lyrics, guidance on song structure, melody and lyrics, and performance of the created song.
Rhythm Fun
An energetic and interactive session where students explore rhythm using a variety of percussion instruments. This program emphasizes fun while teaching the fundamentals of rhythm with an introduction to different rhythm instruments, games to develop a sense of timing and coordination, and an increased appreciation for the role of rhythm in music.
Learn the Dulcimer
Students will get hands-on experience with Kentucky's state instrument, the mountain dulcimer. Activities include: Introduction to the dulcimer, step-by-step instructions on how to hold and play the dulcimer, practice sessions with a class set of dulcimers, and learning and playing simple tunes.
Make A Crankie
Using a cardboard box, tape, paper, and wooden dowels, you can make a Crankie! A Crankie is an old-fashioned storytelling device. To use it, illustrate your story on a scroll of paper, place it inside the Crankie, and hand-crank the scroll as you tell or sing the story.
Cross-curricular connections: Children's Literature, Social Studies, Writing, Reading/Language Arts