Myra Melford is a jazz pianist and composer. In recent years, Melford has begun playing the harmonium as well as piano. Melford grew up in the Chicago area. Based in New York City since the mid 80s, Melford has played as a side-person with Henry Threadgill, and has led her own bands including players such as trumpeters Dave Douglas and Cuong Vu, reed players Marty Ehrlich and Chris Speed, bassists Lindsey Horner and Stomu Takeishi, drummers Michael Sarin and Kenny Wolleson, and cellist Erik Friedlander.