This session sponsored by The Jazz Institute of Chicago, consists of a panel discussion with Chip Gdalman and members of the Noteworthy Jazz Ensemble on an exciting concept of how music teachers can and should view themselves. Mr. Gdalman and the Noteworthy Jazz Ensemble will model tips on how they truly "Practice What They Teach." This approach, as noted by Jazz Educator, Richard Dunscomb - "is truly an inspiring one for students that occurs as a result of teachers themselves being inspired!"
Louis "Chip" Gdalman
- Biographical Information
Chicago native Louis “Chip” Gdalman first became involved in music playing the saxophone in the band at Hyde Park High School. While at Washington University in St. Louis, he discovered jazz and organized the first student jazz band at that school. Returning to Chicago, Chip studied jazz improvisation with the legendary Joe Daley, and earned his Master’s Degree in Music Education from Roosevelt University. He started gigging around town playing everything from shows to polkas. He leads his own jazz combos and big bands, and played for, among others, Bill Russo and Bobby Christian. He is a founding member of Marshall Vente’s Project 9 bands and is featured as both a soloist and arranger on Vente’s albums.
During the 80’s and 90’s, Chip was on the faculties of Loyola University, Roosevelt University, and the Merit Music Program, directing their jazz bands and teaching jazz history; arranging; improvisation; and saxophone. In 2001, Chip became the band director and music teacher at Gompers Fine Arts Option Elementary School on Chicago’s far South side (currently known as the Jessie Owens Community Academy Elementary School). For the past 17 summers, he has directed the Gallery 37/After School Matters jazz band and since its’ inception in 2010, Chip has led the Noteworthy Jazz Band (a jazz big band comprised of Chicago Public Schools Music Teachers). Chip was presented the Jazz Educator of the Year Award by The Jazz Institute of Chicago in 2011.