Tirone, Maria: - Maria Tirone is a poet, songwriter, vocalist, and pianist. Music is the essence of her soul. Growing up in Arvada, Colorado, she began playing piano at age seven. Classically trained, she often played in state and national piano competitions. At age 13, she was chosen as a guest soloist for the Denver Metropolitan Orchestra. Attending Metropolitan State University in Denver, Maria majored in piano performance with a minor in theatre, after which she studied abroad in Seville, Spain, at the University of Sevilla. Upon graduation, she did a four-month USO tour of Korea, Japan, Okinawa, and Australia with her band, entertaining troops as the lead vocalist. She moved to Los Angeles, California, and worked as a professional model and musician for 13 years, then relocated to Montrose, Colorado. It was there she began writing poetry. Writing sets Maria's soul on fire and gives wings to her imagination. She currently teaches piano and voice at Precedence Music Academy. She adores her students and enjoys sharing her knowledge and passion for music with them. Her newest project is recording a CD of original songs. In her down time, Maria composes lyrics and music, and writes poetry. She enjoys camping with her family, getting together with friends, and playing with her four kitties and puppy.