ABOUT WAY PAST MIDNIGHT MUSIC
Way Past Midnight Music is led by longtime collaborators Melody Stevens, M.M., and Dr. Evita Belmonte, Ed.D. Together, they bring decades of experience as musicians, educators, directors, producers, and creative mentors. Based in New Jersey, the company provides music direction and accompaniment, music workshops, musical theater intensives, and live music for private events. Melody and Evita also draw upon a trusted network of professional musicians and theater artists to assemble the right creative team for each project.
MELODY STEVENS, M.M.
Music Director, Accompanist, Vocalist, Educator, and Co-Executive Producer
Melody Stevens earned her Bachelor of Music from Rutgers University's Mason Gross School of the Arts and her Master of Music from Westminster Choir College at Rider University. During more than three decades as a music educator, director, accompanist, and vocal coach, she has produced and directed more than 100 shows and concerts involving professional musicians and performers of all ages.
Her music direction has contributed to award-winning and nationally recognized student performances, including a Count Basie Award-winning musical, an NBC holiday singing competition finalist, appearances preceding Radio City Music Hall's Christmas Spectacular, and performances at the Virginia International Music Festival and Country Music Hall of Fame. Melody maintains an active voice and piano studio and brings skilled musicianship, supportive leadership, and joyful collaboration to every Way Past Midnight Music project.
DR. EVITA BELMONTE, Ed.D.
Drummer, Percussionist, Multi-Instrumentalist, Educator, and Co-Executive Producer
Dr. Evita Belmonte is a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, performer, choir director, producer, and educator whose work spans music, educational leadership, and community engagement. She earned her Doctor of Education from Tapestry Christian University and served as the Queens representative on the New York City Panel for Educational Policy. She has also worked as an executive consultant and advisor supporting educational and cultural initiatives.
Evita's musical credits include recording work associated with RCA and Buddah Records, performances with Life USA at venues including New York City's Copacabana, film-production work, and the creation of the original Holiday Musical Fantasy. Through Way Past Midnight Music, she combines extensive professional experience with a deep commitment to helping young artists build authentic confidence, ensemble skills, and a lasting love of performance.