Dr. Kelley Poché Rodriguez

Kelley is so happy to have found her church home with First Mesquite. She began working as the collaborative pianist and then music director in 2021, and joined the church in 2024. In addition to her work directing the Chancel Choir and Praise Band, she works extensively at theatres and schools throughout DFW as a music director, collaborative pianist, choral and musical theatre clinician, adjudicator, and arranger. She previously taught choir, music theory, and musical theatre at the secondary and collegiate levels for 17 years. Kelley holds a PhD in Fine Arts/ Music Education from Texas Tech, a Master of Arts in Music Education from Texas Woman’s University (where she previously served on the faculty), and a Bachelor of Music in Music Education/ Piano Performance from the University of Texas at Austin. She loves the musical family that exists at First Mesquite, and she has made so many lasting friendships here! When not working, Kelley enjoys spending time with her husband Mario, her three cats (Cher, Hasbrown Patrick, and Waffles), going to see live musical theatre productions, riding her bicycle, playing board games, watching Saturday Night Live, and crafting. A favorite quote: “If I cannot fly, let me sing.” – Stephen Sodheim