About Archetto
Archetto, LLC, a company founded in 2022 by Melissa Gregory-Simon, aims to revolutionize music education by infusing it with the excitement of gaming. The visionary goal of the company is to make learning music an engaging and adventurous experience.
At the core of this vision is “Note Navigator,” the company’s flagship product, which seamlessly blends the thrill of gaming with the demands of music education. This unique approach provides an immersive learning experience specifically designed for viola and violin students, offering them an innovative and engaging way to master musical concepts.
Our Core Values
- Cognitive Development
Music Education is Essential for Child Development. Our app supports development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and other cognitive skills through music.
- Accessibility
We believe that every child, regardless of their background, should have access to quality music education. Our app is designed to be inclusive and reach a diverse audience.
- Engagement
By integrating video game elements, we make learning music fun and interactive, keeping students motivated and excited about their musical journey.
- Creativity
We aim to foster creativity in children by providing them with tools and experiences that encourage imaginative exploration and expression through music.
- Building Bonds and Friendships
Our app fosters a sense of community and collaboration, helping students connect with peers who share their musical interests and passions.
Our Team
Melissa Gregory-Simon
Owner
Catch me on
Melissa Gregory-Simon is an accomplished violist with an illustrious career spanning over three decades. Her journey began with a successful audition into the Civic Orchestra of Chicago in 1983, at 17, making her one of its youngest members. She would remain with Civic for a decade working under notables such as Sir George Solti, Daniel Baremboim and many others. She earned a Bachelor of Music in Viola Performance from DePaul University in 1993, studying with Rami Solomonow. Along with a Masters in Viola performance from Roosevelt University in 2000.
During many years as a working musician she continued her studies with Dr. Peter Slowik, a renowned pedagogue. She further honed her craft with a Master of Music in Viola Performance from Roosevelt University, studying with Li-Kuo Chang, principal violist of the Chicago Symphony. Upon moving to Madison, WI she spent a decade as a coach for the Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestra, working with the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra and the Madison Symphony while raising her children.
Beyond her performances, Melissa is considered a “Master Teacher,” boasting 38 years of experience as a private instructor. Her interests include the psychology of learning, gamified education, and web/graphic design. Melissa’s passion for music and continuous pursuit of knowledge exemplify her as a multifaceted musician and educator.
Angelica Chapman-Sykes is a talented and strategic social media professional with a diverse background in media arts, game development, office operations, Japanese studies, and public engagement. She earned bachelor’s degrees in Media Arts and Development and Japanese Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. Angelica is deeply passionate about music education, video games, and promoting diversity, and this commitment is evident in both her professional and personal pursuits.
As a skilled viola player and student of Melissa, Angelica brings a unique blend of artistic passion and marketing expertise to her role. Her journey has taken her through various aspects of the video game industry, where she has excelled as an influencer, brand ambassador, and entrepreneur. Since 2023, she has participated in over 200 speaking engagements, forming strong connections and nurturing community engagement.
Her commitment to teamwork and communication aligns with her leadership in online communities. As Miss Beloit 2023 with the Miss America Opportunity, she initiated “Game Changers: Diversifying STEAM through Video Games,” a community service project that will transition into a non-profit organization in 2024. Through collaborations with video game companies and various educational institutions, this initiative promotes diversity and inclusivity in STEAM fields by offering gaming workshops to young people.
Deven Kelsey
Programer
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Deven Kelsey is an up and coming programmer who will graduate in May 2025 from Madison College with a degree in web software development. With a deep passion for video games, Rubik’s cubes, and electronics, Deven thrives on hands-on problem-solving and creative challenges.
Deven’s enthusiasm for gamified learning aligns perfectly with Archetto’s mission to make music education accessible and engaging for kids. He is particularly excited about using his skills to develop interactive experiences that blend technology and education, providing young learners with unique opportunities to explore music in a fun and meaningful way.
