About — Melissa Hagstedt

Meet Melissa

A passionate performer, trombonist Melissa Hagstedt has a mission to empower others to find their own unique voice. Evidence of this passion can be found from her time in eGALiterian, an all female brass ensemble that promotes the compositions of female composers. As a founding member of the ensemble, Melissa was instrumental in actively creating a space where all voices felt welcome and worthy of being heard. Her mission continued as she created safe spaces through her work with Azure Family Concerts Pittsburgh, a sensory friendly concert for individuals with Autism where all behaviors are welcome and Project Unmute, a research lab for older adults with changing cognition who participate in a music program delivered by teenage musicians. In her time as the trombone instructor for the Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) music extension division program she ensured that her students felt empowered in their musical abilities. With her middle and high school students she encourages them to find confidence through their music making.

As a performer Melissa has enjoyed playing a broad range of repertoire. From orchestra and chamber music to Broadway and contemporary, Melissa has had the opportunity to showcase these musical styles. She has performed with a number of different orchestras including the Western Piedmont Symphony, Augusta Symphony Orchestra, Richmond County Orchestra, Bergen Symphony Orchestra, Park Avenue Chamber Symphony, CMU Philharmonic, NYU Symphony, and New York Youth Symphony (Principal Trombone). Most recently she joined the 2024 National Tour of Annie the musical and the 2023 National Tour of How the Grinch Stole Christmas the Musical.

Melissa completed her Master of Music at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), her Bachelor of Instrumental Music Performance from New York University (NYU), and her Artist Diploma at OAcademy Music Conservatory. During her time at these institutions she performed regularly with the school's orchestras and chamber ensembles. While at NYU she received an award for her excellence in Orchestral Studies. During her time in New York City (NYC) Melissa performed regularly with a broad range of local orchestras, opera companies and musical theater companies. The past few summers Melissa played for Music Academy International’s opera pits, Brevard Music Center’s festival orchestra and college student orchestra, Miami Music Festival’s opera pits and College Light Opera Company who had a digital season for summer of 2020. For this Melissa collaborated and created online content for the Youtube and local television series.

For the entirety of Melissa’s music education she has been able to study with exceptional trombonists. Most recently Melissa studied with former Associate Principal Trombone of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Rebecca Cherian. Prior to her time with Professor Cherian, Melissa worked with former Metropolitan Opera Principal Dr. Per Brevig. She shares a love for classical music with her flute playing sister, Dayna who is also a graduate of CMU.

https://www.azurepittsburgh.org/

https://www.centerartsinnovation.com/about.html

What People Are Saying

“Melissa is a very talented trombonist with excellent command of the instrument. She has a beautiful sound, natural musical approach as well as strong leadership qualities. I expect to hear great music from her for years to come.”

— Rebecca Cherian (Associate Principal Trombone Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra)

"Melissa is an outstanding musician, with a big, rich sound and real technical prowess. She’s dedicated, consistent, and a pleasure to work with.”

— George Vosburgh (Former Principal Trumpet Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra)

“Melissa Rose is a wonderful trombonist and musician with a very sweet sound and lots of raw power. I’d have her on my team anytime.”

— Peter Sullivan (Principal Trombone Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra)

Melissa is a marvelous musician who works very well with low brass students of all ages. Her instruction is logically paced and encouraging for students, no matter what their skill level might be. Her work with my low brass students was very helpful and much appreciated.