Instructors
Sara Mungovan is an Illinois K-12 certified music teacher (general music, band, choir), vocalist, and devoted mother of three with nearly two decades of experience teaching, performing, and inspiring students of all ages. Her experiences both in the classroom and at home have shaped her nurturing approach to education, helping young students to develop confidence, creativity, a lifelong love of music and appreciation for the arts.
Sara’s diverse teaching background includes positions at both private and public schools, and numerous school districts throughout the Chicago area, as well as extensive experience as a private voice instructor. Throughout her career, she has specialized in elementary general music, choral instruction, vocal technique, and student performance development.
Sara Mungovan, co-founder
A graduate of the University of Michigan School of Music, Sara earned a Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance. She later completed her post-baccalaureate teacher certification program at DePaul University’s School of Music. Her passion for music and culture also led her to study abroad in Urbania, Italy, where she completed intensive coursework in music and the Italian language.
In addition to her work in the classroom, Sara has maintained an active performing career. She has served as a cantor and choir member at several parishes, where she leads congregational singing and contributes to liturgical music programs. Her performance experience also includes serving as a wedding and funeral cantor and solo vocalist for numerous ceremonies and events.
Known for her enthusiasm, warmth, and commitment to student success, Sara combines strong musicianship with a nurturing teaching style. She is passionate about helping young musicians discover their voices, develop their talents, and experience the joy and confidence that music can bring to their lives.
Melissa Vincent is a mother, vocalist, and a passionate educator with over a decade of experience teaching private lessons, directing choirs, and leading musical theater productions across Illinois and Colorado. An Illinois K-12 certified music teacher, she has taught at several local schools across the North Shore.
Outside the classroom, Melissa stays busy as an accomplished soprano with a performance background that spans professional choirs, solo gigs, and intimate events like weddings and memorial services. Whether she’s accompanying herself on piano and guitar or teaming up with other musicians, she really just loves connecting with people through music. That same energy carries right over into her family life. She and her husband, along with their two kids and puppy, spend most of their free time out in nature—whether they're hiking, biking, skiing, or spending the day at the beach.
Melissa Vincent, co-founder
When it comes to education, Melissa believes there is no one-size-fits-all approach. She loves how each student brings their own personality, quirks, and strengths to the stage. Her teaching style blends playfulness with musical excellence, helping children build confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love for the arts.
Melissa holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Michigan State University with a focus in Vocal Performance and studied further in Bregenz, Austria. She also holds a specialization in Early Childhood Music Education based on Music Learning Theory (MLT), having studied under Dr. Edwin Gordon and MLT expert Dr. Cynthia Taggart. By combining her love of performing with this specialized training, Melissa is thrilled to co-found Roots and provide the community’s youngest children with a warm, supportive introduction to music.
