New Territory

New Territory was started by Singer/Songwriter Melissa Gordon Rhine in Atlanta, Georgia. Her idea was to have a project that would allow artistic freedom and growth for all musicians involved while moving the group along a creative corridor where all styles could intersect.
Improvisation is the main contribution that all members bring to the ensemble.
Melissa began her love affair with music as a baby (maybe earlier). She began picking out tunes by ear on the family piano at 2 years old. At 8, she began writing poetic lyrics. Her elementary education included studying piano and theory at the Cleveland Music School Settlement. She also studied violin, recorder, guitar and was an active part of various choral groups. She began studying Voice at age 18 and continues to study as well as enjoys her work as a Music Educator, currently teaching Voice, Piano, Song Composition and Performance skills. There have been a wide variety of performances as well as studio experience. Melissa appeared as "Miss Harmony" in the "town" of Crossroads at Stone Mountain Park. She has also performed on WXIA TV for the special "A Southern Christmas".
Her influences include Sarah Vaughn, Joni Mitchell, Chaka Khan, Buddy Guy and instrumentalists throughout history. As a songwriter, Melissa strives to create music in a variety of styles, that's positive and honest.



Michael has played music since the mid-sixties working through many diverse styles in over 30 different bands. Due to the improvisational nature of his musical endeavors, Michael is comfortable playing blues, rock and jazz. After studying classical and jazz guitar at the University level, he pursued private teaching while gigging throughout the Midwest. Michael brings an eclectic, innovative blend of rhythms and techniques to New Territory.
His influences are diverse: Jimmy Smith, Thelonious Monk, John Coltrane, John McLaughlin, Sonny Rollins, Miles Davis, Eric Clapton, Wes Montgomery and The Allman Brothers.
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