Melissa Bonds is in her 19th year teaching choir at Pizitz Middle School, where she has spent her entire career, according to VestaviaVoice.com. Bonds, a Pizitz and Vestavia Hills High School alumna, told the publication her love of music grew from a musical family and participation in school and church ensembles, while her passion for teaching developed through strong choir programs led by educators including Brent Coleman, Megan Rudolph and Bob Hatfield.
Bonds said choir has no prerequisite and welcomes any student regardless of personality or skill set. She said she frequently hears people claim they cannot sing, but she considers that false, adding that everyone can learn to sing with encouragement and guidance. She said she wants as many students as possible to discover their potential as singers and musicians.
Bonds said choir is about more than music, because students build relationships through the process and every person in the room contributes to the ensemble’s success. She said she values spending three years with many students, watching them grow as musicians and people. She said she hopes students remember they are loved, valued and capable, and that they learn to recognize the unique gifts others bring.
For more information, visit vestaviavoice.com.