Melinda Dishaw (Miss Mindi) has been teaching piano for over 30 years. She began with teenagers and adults. She has been working with students of all ages since 1992.
Music Instruction and Early Childhood Education...
From 1991-1996 Melinda worked at St. John Lutheran Preschool. While there she attended workshop/training events with Bev Boz and many other well known early childhood experts.
From 2000 to 2004, and 2006-2008, Melinda worked at Beacock Music as a piano teacher, Kindermusik educator, group piano and general music teacher.
Church music...
Melinda's experience in church music began as a freshman in high school where she played for the Sunday School children's worship time for many years. In church services, she performed special music with other musicians and vocalists and accompanied congregational singing.
In 1992 she became pianist for Orchards United Methodist Church, as well as taking on the roles of kids choir director, adult choir accompanist, youth director, and, played with the praise band. Currently she is the Music Director.
Other churches Melinda has served at include Mill Plain United Methodist—as a pianist, praise team musician, children's worship arts program director and substitute choir accompanist—and Immanuel Lutheran Church as pianist and substitute choir accompanist.
Education...
Melinda studied piano and attended master classes with Dr. Allen Gates in high school. She also studied with the Beloved Ruth Ann Green and attended many piano teacher training events with her.
She attended Clark College continuing her studies under Dr. Gates, and accompanied the Clark College Choir. She also studied Music Theory with Dale Beacock.
Melinda has attended many training workshops over the years to better herself as an educator as well as a musician.
Creative Journey...
Melinda created her Baby Bach's and Tuneful Tots program using all of her years of experience and ideas to give families affordable, fun learning classes.
Melody Makers grew from using Lynn Kleiner materials and adapting them for the emerging preschooler. Melinda is energetic and passionate about these little musicians who are prepped to go onto piano lessons.
Melinda has also accompanied musicals with the Blue Parent Theater and Clark College Theater Department. Each time she was written in as a character. (Watch out Broadway!)
Miss Mindi sees her students as unique individuals with unique learning styles. She works hard to put together curriculum that fits each one. She has also taught students with special needs.
She is married to Bruce for 25 years. They have a blended family of four daughters and two grand-daughters.
Say It! Sing It! Play It!
