News Talk 94.1 The Scene

Melissa Ellis Speaks On Bryan Symphony Orchestra With Mark Creter

Loading player...
Mark Creter sits down with Melissa Ellis, Development Director for the Upper Cumberland’s own Bryan Symphony Orchestra—the only professional orchestra in rural Tennessee. Melissa’s passion for music began at age 15 when she joined the Cumberland County Playhouse in Crossville, and later studied music therapy at Tennessee Tech before working as a jazz artist until 2020. She became an 11-time nominee for the international Josie Music Awards (recently nominated again), while leading all fundraising and networking efforts for the orchestra. Plus, she discusses the troupe’s upcoming concert season and shares insights on balancing her music-driven career with raising four children.

Listen To The Scene Podcast Today!
27 Jul 2025 English United States Arts · Society & Culture

Other recent episodes

Angela Witzell Joins Mark Creter To Discuss The Uniqueness Of Dogwood Exchange

Mark Creter talks with Angela Witzell from Dogwood Exchange, a unique retreat center that has evolved from a retail shop into a creative getaway focused on the arts. Angela shares how discovering art during a difficult season—sparked by her grandmother’s quilting—opened the door to exploring nearly every style she could…
11 Jan 15 min

April Haden Joins Mark Creter As They Discuss The Artsy Fartsy Paint Studio

Mark Creter sits down with April Haden, the creative force behind Artsy Fartsy Paint Studio on the Byrdstown Square. Haden shares how she built a space where local artists—from woodworkers to tattoo artists—can thrive, teach, and sell their work. From pottery wheels with no time limits to portrait painting, custom…
4 Jan 16 min
All episodes