The name Melodee was given to her by her two loving parents Harry and LeMoyne Savage.   The Savage family had a great love for music.  Harry Savage was an accomplished vocalist, choral arranger and conductor.  As a musician in the 30’s he performed with the acclaimed Noble Sissle Band.  After getting his Masters Degree from Columbia University he went on to teach at both the public school and on the college level.

         Melodee’s father Harry Savage SR directing the soprano section during choir rehearsals

Melodee was introduced to music at an early age.  As a child growing up in segregated Richmond, Virginia she created her own stage and performed for her family and neighborhood friends when other girls played house.  At an early age she sang with her father’s choirs becoming comfortable with the pressure and expectations of being on stage. 

                                     Melodee at 9 years old performing with her fathers choir

Throughout her school days in Richmond, Virginia she was active in various school music groups and theater productions performing in the first interracial musical theater production at Thomas Jefferson, High School “Wonderful Town”.  As a graduate of Hampton University she, like her mother and father taught within the Richmond public school system.  While a public school music teacher she performed in various local dinner theaters honing her craft.  Melodee on stage at a dinner Theater in Richmond, Virginia

Next came the big move to New York City and the wonderful creative years spent working with amazing talents that helped Melodee to grow and become a well known and utilized musical resource both as a featured artist and in various support roles (see Bio page for more information).  For over 10 years she lived “uptown” in the amazing Harlem and worked in Manhattan, all along never having to take any other work other then singing… dancing… or acting…  Her skills as a schooled and versatile singer, dancer and actress made her a “go-to” resource that composers,  producers and musical directors would seek out.

                Ain’t Misbehavin               Little Shop of Horrors                    The Dream Team   

                            Queenie Pie                       1940’s Radio Hour                 Merrily we Roll Along    

                      As featured vocalist (L to R): Cooper Union  / Carnegie Hall  / Tulsa Concert Hall

     Melodee w/Steve Salerno Performing in concert / Lecture w/George Russell JR