Melissa Blanco

Hometown

Colton, California

Education

California Baptist University, Bachelors of Music in Music Education and Instrumental Performance - 2017-2021

California Baptist University, Master of Music in Instrumental Performance - 2021-2023

Instrument

Flute

Biography

Melissa is a Mexican-American flutist, performer, educator, and leader. She has had the opportunity to play in a masterclass with Anne Zentner, former Principal Flute of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. In the summer of 2018, she attended the Beyond the Masterclass under Jim Walker's direction at the Colburn Conservatory of Music. Melissa has taken lessons from Catherine Karoly (Associate Principal of the Los Angeles Philharmonic), Maria Gabriela Rodriguez (Former Principal of the Venezuela Symphony), and one of her mentors Alheli Pimienta, a world renowned Yamaha Artist and creator of the Flute Sprint Academy. In 2021, she graduated from California Baptist University with a Bachelor's in Music as a double major in Music Education and Instrumental Performance, and shortly after graduated with a Master’s in Music studying under the studio of Mary Oppermann, her first private flute teacher. She has recorded several albums with the CBU University Choir and Orchestra, working with the well-known composer of worship music Tommy Walker and LifeWay, one of the largest publishing divisions in Christian business services. Melissa has also taught students from all around the world, specifically in Latin America. In the summer of 2022, she graduated from level 10 of the Royal Conservatory of Music program with honors and distinction, and is currently pursuing her Associate Diploma teaching certificate to become RCM certified and continue developing her flute studio. Apart from Melissa's Flute studies, her passion as an educator also influenced her to teach string classes with the Riverside Arts Academy. Melissa currently resides in Riverside and serves as a band director for the Magnolia Elementary afterschool music program, and Woodwind Technician for the Redlands Christian Schools.

What inspired you to go into music?

Melissa was inspired to become a musician by watching her friends join band in elementary school. Melissa has been committed to the flute ever since.

What is an interesting fact about you?

Melissa has two pugs! She is a big dog-lover.

What activities do you enjoy in your spare time?

Melissa enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and pugs. She also works on her personal projects on the side, and loves to go on sushi runs!

What are you most excited for about this 2024-2025 season?

Melissa is most excited to perform with musicians of her community, and looks forward to the beautiful music we will create together.

Favorite Musical Quote:

“Pay no attention to what the critics say. No statue has ever been put up to a critic.”

-Jean Sibelius