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Adam Salas (M.M. ’18) is this week’s featured alum in our new Alumni Spotlight series for the This Week at Meadows e-newsletter. Each week, a different Meadows alum will be highlighted for their accomplishments post-graduation.

After completing his Master of Music in piano performance and pedagogy at Meadows, Adam Salas knew his calling was to pursue a professional path in musical education, teaching and sharing his passion for piano with students of his own. He credits Meadows’ interdisciplinary approach with laying a strong foundation for his career trajectory.

“My journey in the field of music has been deeply shaped by my time at Meadows,” says Salas, who is a Nationally Certified Teacher of Music and the current President of the Dallas Music Teachers Association. “The program not only honed my musical skills but also provided me with the pedagogical tools and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of teaching music.”

It was the faculty at Meadows that helped encourage him to think creatively and build the ability to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of music education. Utilizing the skills he learned through his own music education, Salas works as a lecturer of piano at institutions like Texas Women’s University and even his alma mater, SMU, as well as a private piano studio owner where he teaches privately.

“Working in academia is a dynamic field where I get to share my passion for music with students of all ages and backgrounds,” Salas explains. “The opportunity to nurture talent, witness growth, and foster a love for music is truly fulfilling.”

Not only does Salas find fulfillment in teaching the music he holds close to his heart, but he also contributes his time to organizations like The Frances Clark Center, a nonprofit educational organization that serves the advancement of piano teaching, learning, and performing, and the Meadows 2050 Council, in addition to serving as chair for the Texas MTNA Composition Competition. Salas was even recently awarded Top Piano Teacher for 2023 by Steinway Hall - Dallas. He considers networking and building relationships within your field, and even beyond it, to be an essential professional tool and encourages students pursuing similar paths to remain passionate and dedicated to their craft.

“Stay curious, embrace challenges, and never stop learning; genuine enthusiasm is contagious and can propel you forward in your career.”