New Territory, LLC
About
Melissa Gordon Rhine began her love affair with music as a baby (maybe earlier!). She began picking out tunes by ear on the family piano at 2 years old! At 8, she began writing poetic lyrics. Her elementary education included studying piano and theory at the Cleveland Music School Settlement. She also studied violin, recorder, guitar and was an active part of various chorus'. She began studying Voice at age 18 and continues to currently study and grow as well as enjoying her work as a Vocal Coach. There have been a wide variety of performance opportunities as well as studio work experience. Melissa appeared as "Miss Harmony" in the "town" of Crossroads at Stone Mountain Park. She also performed on WXIA TV for the special "A Southern Christmas" hosted by Vicki Locke and Steve McCoy.
Her many influences include Sarah Vaughn, Joni Mitchell, Chaka Khan, Buddy Guy and instrumentalists throughout history. As a songwriter, Melissa strives to create music in a variety of styles, that is positive and uplifting to the listener. As a musician, she shares her joy of creating music, specifically designed to meet the needs of each individual student.
Ms Rhine is currently offering private lessons in Voice and Beginning/Intermediate Piano for all ages. Audition, basic theory and performance skills are included.
Ms. Rhine assists each student in establishing individual goals and expectations. The following will be covered by agreement of the teacher, student and parent (if appropriate):
Basics and Fundamentals of Healthy Singing
Approaching the Voice as an Instrument
Fine Tune Your Performance
Singing as Communication
Effective Auditions
Interpretation of Individual Pieces
Delivery
Visualization
Picking the Right Material
Vocal Exercises and Warm ups
Goal Setting: The Ongoing Process
Vocal Placement
Find Your Keys
Professional Approach
The "Business" of Music
Set Compilation
Attitude
Harmony
Basic Theory
Studio Work
"Where Do I Go From Here?"
Currently offering private virtual lessons in Voice and Piano for all ages
I love teaching piano and voice to students of all ages. We all come to music for a variety of reasons. Playing and creating music has endless benefits that positively benefit each individual. I've loved making music all my life, and hope to share and deepen the joy and appreciation of music in each person!
Photos and videos
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The first lesson I'll ask many questions to assess where you've been, where you are and where you'd like to go musically. Then we set up a plan to get you where you want to go!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have 35+ years of professional experience performing in many different venues, fronting my own ensemble New Territory, and have 20+ years of teaching piano and voice. I've taught in/for the same music school, Gwinnett School of Music for 20 year, as well as privately, in my home and students homes. I began to teach virtually only in 2020 and love it! For those who desire virtual lessons, it works!
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge according to piano or voice, age and level.
How did you get started teaching?
In 2002, I was performing at Stone Mountain Park, a colleague mentioned a local music school was looking for a vocal coach and that I should go and audition. I spoke with the director, she asked me to sing for her and hired me on the spot. She then mentioned, she needed me to teach piano as well. I told her I wasn't sure I was qualified and she offered to mentor me. Her guidence and belief in me got me started. I also had a wonderful vocal teacher who mentored me. I fell in love with teaching and haven't looked back!