Melissa Hansen

Melissa Hansen is Skyward Symphony's saxophone section leader. She was taught piano by her mom at an early age and then learned the clarinet in junior high. She moved to saxophone in 9th grade to be involved with the jazz band. After high school the saxophone was only pulled out on special occasions. In 2016 she joined the Golden Years band and regained her love of playing with a band and performing for the community. She was thrilled to be a founding member of Harmonic Winds of Utah in 2022 and equally excited to discover Skyward Symphony in 2023. Recently, she has enjoyed learning music transposition and harmonization. Music is not just a passion for Melissa; it has led to improved mental health and self-esteem. She plays soprano, alto, and tenor saxophone and clarinet with the different groups she performs with.

Melissa has a background in Chemical Engineer and worked as a senior scientist for a nutraceutical company for 15 years before stepping back and taking some time with her family. She enjoyed several years of teaching math and English at her daughter’s elementary school and then in 2014, she co-founded a non-profit organization where she is Executive Director. She loves to read and do all kinds of sewing projects.

Melissa married her love, Josh, in 1994 and they have 3 grown kiddos and 3 amazing grandkids.