Her Story
About Michelle
Michelle Moon Manzi is a distinguished music educator, professor, conductor, and private voice and piano instructor with more than three decades of experience shaping musicians at every stage of their educational journey. Currently serving as Professor of Music at Polk State College, she teaches music theory, aural skills, music history, applied voice, and choir while leading efforts to recruit students and strengthen the college's music program. Throughout her career, she has remained passionate about providing high-quality music education, believing that music plays a vital role in developing the whole person academically, creatively, and personally.
Before assuming her current professorship, Michelle built an accomplished career across public, private, charter, and higher education institutions. She served for many years as an adjunct professor at Polk State College, an elementary music teacher and private voice instructor at Lakeland Christian School, owner of Manzi's Music, Inc., and choir director and music teacher at McKeel Academy. Beyond the classroom, she has conducted community and honor choirs, adjudicated vocal competitions, coordinated statewide music events, and served as worship coordinator for her church. Recognized for her leadership, she successfully expanded music programs, increased choir participation, and continues to mentor students ranging from beginners to professional musicians. Her selection to conduct performances at Carnegie Hall alongside her college choir and the Manzi Legacy Choir reflects her reputation for artistic excellence and educational leadership.
Michelle's educational foundation began with a full scholarship in voice and piano at Florida Community College at Jacksonville, followed by studies at Jacksonville University before earning both her Bachelor of Music Education and Master of Music Education from Florida State University. She remains actively engaged in the profession through organizations including the American Choral Directors Association, Florida Music Educators Association, Florida Vocal Association, and the National Association for Music Education. Guided by hard work, humility, collaboration, and lifelong learning, Michelle is dedicated to inspiring future generations of musicians while building thriving music programs that foster creativity, excellence, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Michelle
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, consistency, humility, and a commitment to continuous learning. I have been fortunate to learn from exceptional mentors and teachers, and I value honest feedback as an essential part of personal and professional growth. I also believe that meaningful success is built through collaboration rather than individual achievement. Music has been a transformative force in my life, providing healing, purpose, belonging, and joy during difficult times while continually reminding me that the greatest accomplishments are achieved through shared effort and collective excellence.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to always be prepared, ask for help when needed, and take the time to learn what truly matters to the people you serve. Understanding what is important to others builds trust, strengthens relationships, and creates a positive environment where people feel valued and supported.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Every voice matters. Whether you are a woman, a man, or a young person, your perspective has value. Never underestimate your worth or allow anyone to make you feel that your voice is less important. Everyone deserves to be heard and respected.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest opportunities in music education is inspiring the next generation of musicians by blending traditional musical excellence with innovative technology. The field's biggest challenges include recruiting students, securing funding for arts programs, and reinforcing the value of music as an essential part of education. I believe music education is fundamental to fostering creativity, academic success, and personal growth.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty, integrity, and strong moral principles are the values that guide both my professional and personal life. These values shape my decisions, strengthen my leadership, and influence the way I build relationships with others.
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