The National Association for Music Education (NAfME) has designated March as Music in Our Schools Month. To celebrate, the jsquared music performance center will be highlighting people who played instruments in grade school and the impact it made on their lives.

Today, we highlight Melanie Pertee. Melanie is Pertee is an Administrative Rep Senior for a major government contractor supporting the US Navy Submarine fleet.

Melanie Pertee

What instrument do you play?

Clarinet, Oboe

At what age did you begin to play your first instrument?

10

Why did you start playing?

I started band, because it was the family thing, both my aunt and dad had played clarinet during their school days. I had always told my parents at parades I wanted to do that when I was old enough.

What was your experience with music during your elementary, middle and high school years?

I loved music, it taught me self discipline and that hard work pays off. Music played an important role throughout my school years as it made friendships that I still have today along with great memories that I carry with me.

Who was your favorite music teacher? What made them your favorite?

My favorite band teacher was Mr. Bill Pease. He always pushed us to be better and instilled in us that our band was our family and we would always have that friendship as we grew older. He knew that each of us had a special gift that we could provide the Team and he worked to cultivate that in each and everyone of us.

What is your favorite band memory from grade school?

I have so many but I think that my favorite memory is when we went to a competition with Plaza Junior, and we came home with every trophy that there was a category for and we won a special session with a director who worked with us. A lot of people that year couldn't believe that we were a junior high band with the music we were playing. From that moment on we were dubbed the pride of Plaza.

Did you play an instrument in college? Did music impact your college choice?

I did not play an instrument in college as I went later in life so I didn't attend traditional college.

What is your current occupation?

I am and Administrative Rep Senior for a major government contractor supporting the US Navy Submarine fleet.

How has music helped you in your current occupation?

The organizational and self discipline that I learned in music/band has helped me become a sought after Administrative Rep within in my company because I take pride in the work I put out and always make sure I work with integrity and respect.

How has music played a part in your adult life?

Music has made me realize my goals, it has made me want to succeed and better myself. It has provided me the confidence that I can lead a team at work and in my life.

What advice do you have for young musicians?

My advice for young musicians is to listen to what you are being told, practice always makes perfect.