We recently connected with Melania Maldonado and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Melania, thanks for joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

From a young age, singing was an integral part of my life. My childhood was filled with music, and I eagerly participated in school recitals and public performances whenever I had the chance. I vividly remember when my mother asked me what I wanted to do with my life—I confidently declared that I wanted to be a singer, a dream I’ve steadfastly pursued ever since.

Her encouragement to seek professional training ignited my passion for learning. This journey took me to the Instituto Superior de Arte in Havana, Cuba, where I honed my craft. I later became a vocal coach in Ecuador and New York, specifically in the Bronx. These experiences not only deepened my skills but also inspired me to start my own business, where I can exercise both creative and pedagogical control. It’s incredibly fulfilling to share my love for music and nurture the next generation of artists.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Growing up in Quito, Ecuador, music has always been the heartbeat of my existence. From an early age, I recognized its power, dedicating myself to mastering both the technical and emotional aspects of music. After earning a full scholarship for my master’s degree at the prestigious Instituto Superior de Arte in Havana, I returned to Quito and founded “The Voice Institute,” where I served as General Director and voice instructor until I moved to the U.S. in 2001.

In New York City, I established “MelaniaMusic” as a vocal coach, driven by my passion for exploring the intricacies of the human voice. My Midtown Manhattan studio is a vibrant melting pot of diverse voices from around the globe. My teaching approach blends an anatomical understanding of the voice with the profound joy that music brings. I delve into the culture and history of music, physiology of voice production, breath management, auditory development, and various vocal styles, ensuring a well-rounded education.

What truly sets me apart is my commitment to helping students uncover their authentic selves through the art of singing. I focus on individual expression rather than just technical perfection. Additionally, I initiated the “Music for Life” program to enrich the lives of young people through music, nurturing them not just as musicians but as individuals.

I take great pride in fostering an environment where my students leave not only with musical skills but also a deeper understanding of themselves and their connection to the world. My ultimate goal is to contribute to a more beautiful world through music, and I’m dedicated to guiding each student on that journey.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My creative journey is deeply driven by the dreams of my inner child. Whether through teaching or performing, my goal is to transform lives. Music transcends mere art; it’s a powerful blend of sound and voice that evokes profound emotions, teaching us discipline and self-expression.

I firmly believe that music education should start in childhood, forging a connection between the brain and our most emotional instrument: the voice. Through my work, I aim to highlight the essential role music and singing play in holistic development. By nurturing this connection, I strive to empower individuals to express themselves fully and embrace the transformative power of music in their lives.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Absolutely! I often reflect on how beneficial it would have been to have a mentor like myself when I was a child—someone who could provide comprehensive guidance in music. I would have greatly valued having a teacher to help me explore the nuances of the human body and voice, enabling me to truly “discover the color” of my voice.

In the early stages of my journey, I focused on understanding the unseen yet deeply felt aspects of singing. I soon realized that true mastery requires more than just technical skill; it demands a profound connection between the mind, heart, ear, and voice. My mission now is to guide my students in eliminating unhelpful habits and fully realizing their unique sound.

Additionally, I prepare my students for the realities of the industry. I assist them in finding internships and help them navigate the less trustworthy aspects of the field. My ultimate goal is to equip them not only for their professional journeys but for life as a whole.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.melaniamusic.com
• Instagram: melaniamusic.nyc
• Facebook: melaniamusic.nyc
• Linkedin: Melania Maldonado Vocal coach
• Youtube: Melania Maldonado Vocal coach
• Soundcloud: MelaniaMusic

Image Credits

Photographer
Patricia Burmicky