NYYM’s Director
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© 2012 New York Youth Musicians
New York Youth Musicians’ Director, Diana Melgarejo, is a very dedicated and enthusiastic music educator.
Ms. Diana began teaching at the early age of 15 through the private lesson program provided through ISO youth orchestra for the students of Talented Unlimited High School, of which she held the position of Principal Percussionist at the time. It was through this unique opportunity that Ms. Diana recognized she had a passion for sharing her education and experiences, of which she is very grateful for.
Having had the opportunity to study at some of the country’s fantastic music programs, schools and with well respected instructors in the music industry, Ms. Diana created New York Youth Musicians to provide a similar music education for students in the outer boroughs of New York City and is determined to offer this unique program at an affordable cost to the families of Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island.
Ms. Diana has attended Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art, The Juilliard School, Interlochen Arts Camp, Berklee College of Music and Mannes College of Music. As a young musician she had been appointed principal percussionist for youth orchestras such as : MYO (Metropolitan Youth Orchestra) ISO Symphony Orchestra, WYSO (World Youth Symphony Orchestra, and sub for the Doctors Orchestra of NY and Lawyers Orchestra of NY.
She had studied with her late piano instructor, Mr. Edward Edson of The Original Piano Quartet, for over ten years.
Her percussion instructors have included Dr. David Fein (NJSO), Jeffrey Milarsky (The Juilliard School), Keith Aleo (Zildjian, Interlochen, Boston Conservatory), Barry Centanni (Montclair University, St. Lukes Orchestra), Jim Priess (Mannes College of Music), Dean Anderson (Berklee College of Music), and many others.
Students often describe Ms. Diana as full of energy and creativity. Many describe NYYM as a “safe” place to express themselves.
A place where no one passes judgement and where Ms. Diana’s positive attitude is contagious and spreads amongst the students.
Ms. Diana not only directs NYYM, but also teaches piano, percussion and directs the ensembles and bands.
Outside of NYYM, Ms. Diana is a co-founder and member of the percussion ensemble Warping Rattan. Aside from music, she plays ice hockey and is a big NY Rangers fan. Ms. Diana resides in Marine Park, Brooklyn with her family - huge NYYM supporters - husband, mother, and two dogs.
