One note hits, and the audience hushes to a silence. Having 20 years of practice, on Nov. 9, 2025, Melanie Richardson said immense feelings of gratitude and appreciation led up to this moment, a spotlight on the big stage: Carnegie Hall.
Chemistry and orchestra teacher Melanie Richardson has had the opportunity to play at Carnegie Hall in New York City five times, more times than Billy Joel.
“I was six years old when I started taking lessons, because that’s when we got our first piano,” Melanie Richardson said.
“Once we had a piano in the house, I finally had the courage to tell my parents that I really wanted to play piano. I love it, and that’s never stopped.”
From her first lessons to performing at Carnegie Hall, no amount of effort was wasted.
“It’s a lot of time, dedication, [plenty] of practice and a lot of patience,” Melanie Richardson said. “There is no day off. Even if it’s just 20 minutes a day, that’s still better than nothing.”
Melanie Richardson said she had to undergo a rigorous process to be able to perform at Carnegie Hall, which accepts under 10% of applicants. She said she tries to share her experiences with her students to inspire them as young musicians.
“I try to carry that self- perseverance over into my teaching, especially the drive and determination to just put everything I have out there, even if it is exhausting,” Melanie Richardson said.
Her father, Wesley Richardson, said he tries to take her motivation seriously and encourages her students to do the same under his daughter’s guidance.
“We are extremely proud of her and what she has done,” Wesley Richardson said. “She works hard for what she’s gotten, and she continues to work hard.”
Melanie Richardson said she acknowledged the influence her accomplishments may have on students, emphasizing that she hopes her success will inspire them to pursue their goals with confidence and determination.
“Getting this far in my musical career is something I’m so proud of,” Melanie Richardson said. “At six years old, I could have never seen myself going this far, and honestly, I hope I get to go further.”