The Percussion Department at Northern Illinois University is proud of its alumni accomplishments. We hope to hear from our alums as often as possible to keep us "up to date" on their activities, and we will continue to post those activities on this page.
Sarah Allen (BM 1981)
Performing with the Chicago run of Blue Man Group.
Paulette (Frazier) Alexis (BM 1990)
Busy mom of three; working as Legal Counsel for the legislature of St. Croix.
Nick Auriemmo (MM 1999)
Having spent 7 years performing and teaching privately in Rockford and Chicago, in 2006 Nick moved to Northern California. Stay tuned here for updates as they become available!
Tom Baker (MM 1989) TBAKER@umpublishing.org
I am a network administrator (sometimes it really feels like network janitor!) for The United Methodist Publishing House in Nashville, TN. I have been married to Susan Baker, a speech pathologist (celebrating 5 years in March), and we are expecting our first baby near the end of May, 1999. I have been at the UMPH for the past 7.5 years. Previously, I was on the road as a drummer for country MCA and Mercury recording artists. We recently moved to a new home, and enjoy boating and woodworking. My collection of tools keeps expanding as I turn the garage into my workshop. I just don't see how you are supposed to keep two cars in there!
Dale Ballard (BM 1969, MM 1972) inlc@inlc.com
Taught for 9 years in DeKalb and 9 years in Tempe, Arizona. Owned own business for 10 years. Currently teaching band in Phoenix, Arizona. Married to Debbi (26 years, also NIU band alum). One son (age 19), who is also a percussionist and plays in the Arizona State University Marching Band.
Randy Banks (BM 1986)
I recently moved to the southern part of Illinois and am employed full-time as a chef. I still play many gigs on weekends, and I have a son who lives in Finger Lakes, New York.
Kurt Barker (BM 1995)
Kurt is living in Mt. Prospect, Illinois, and teaching K-8 band, chorus and general music at Iroquois Community School, a year-round school.
Sarah Barnes (BM 1986, MM 1988)
Professor of Percussion at the National Institute of the Arts in Taipei, Taiwan.
Keith Bartholomew (BM 1983) Bartholomew@arch.utah.edu
I was recently appointed Associate Director of the Wallace Stegner Center for Land Resources and the Environment - the environmental law program of the University of Utah College of Law. I am having a great time in my new job here and loving the mountains.
Steve Bass (BM 1984)
John Battaglia (BM 1978)
John lives in Naperville, IL, and is back at NIU completing his requirements for a teaching certificate.
Paul Betz (MM 1983) pbetz@Kraft.com
Paul was an instrumental music teacher from 1988 to 1996. In January of 1997 he was hired as a computer programmer at Kraft Foods, where he remains employed today. Paul lives in Skokie, Illinois, with his wife Marion and their two children, Joseph and Katherine.
Robert Blim (BM 1978) blimr@nttc.org
I am the band director at Wilmette Jr. High School in Wilmette, Illinois. During the summer I teach at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp in Michigan. My wife Cindy and I have three children, Jeff (15), Chris (12), and Erin (7).
Andy Bliss (BM 2004) andybliss@uky.edu
Andy completed his MM degree at the University of Kentucky in the spring of 2006, and began his DMA program there in fall 2006. His teacher there is NIU alum Jim Campbell, and Andy continues to perform with the Base4 Percussion Quartet. Andy is the Instructor of Percussion at Centre College in Kentucky and a member of the staff of the Madison Scouts. Most importantly, Andy married NIU percussion alum Erin Walker (see below) in June of 2006. Congratulations Andy and Erin!
Michael Boo (BM 1978)
Michael is presently involved in a variety of projects for Drum Corps International, including writing for souvenir program books, CD liner notes, DCI Update and Web articles, and other endeavors. He is a published composer, and currently writes music for a variety of idioms. He is a church handbell and vocal choir director, an assistant director of a community band, and a licensed Realtor in the state of
Stacey Bowers (BM 1974, MM 1976) Stacey@chimes.com
Stacey is the Vice President of Woodstock Percussion, Inc.
Jeff Boyer (BM 1972)
Jeff Brackhan (BM 2001) jeffbrackhan@hotmail.com
In September 2002 Jeff married Summer Sorenson (NIU violin alum). In 2004, after several months of living in Australia and beginning to pursue a degree in renewable energy, Jeff and Summer are returning to live/perform/teach in the Chicago area, as they have recently discovered they are expecting twins! Congratulations, Jeff and Summer!
Doug Bratt (BA 2001, MM 2002) dougbratt@comcast.net
Doug is a full-time music faculty member at
Mark Breen (MM 2004)
Mark and his wife Jessica are teaching music in the Wilcox, Arizona school district.
Jeff Brenner (BM 1984)
Jeff completed his MM degree at Cal Arts and is now living and working as a firefighter (by day) and musician (at night) in Chicago.
Al Broholm (BM 1989) albroholm@earthlink.net
Since 2001, I've been playing drums and piano at the oldest resort in the country, The Homestead in
Jeff Bush (BM 1978, MM 1980) jeff.bush@asu.edu
Dr. Bush is an assistant professor of music education at Arizona State University. Previous to his appointment at A.S.U., Jeff was the percussion instructor and assistant professor of music education at the University of Regina in Canada. He holds a B.Mus.Ed. and M. M. degree from Northern Illinois University and a Ph.D. degree from the University of Arizona. His performance credits include 17 years as percussionist with the Regina Symphony and freelance work with such varied groups as the touring companies of Grease, The Sound of Music, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, the National Ballet of Canada, and many more. Jeff has studied percussion with Leigh Howard Stevens, Gary Cook, the Blackearth Percussion Group, and G. Allan O'Connor. Dr. Bush's publication credits include the Arts Education Policy Review, Canadian Band Journal, Contributions for Research in Music Education, Ostinato, Percussive Notes, and General Music Today; he is currently percussion editor for the Canadian Band Journal.
Carla Campbell (BM 1981)
Carla went on to play for six years professionally in the US and Canada with many groups for traveling tours and including the American Wind Symphony Orchestra and then as Principal Percussionist with the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra. After finishing an MBA in marketing, she worked in marketing and as a producer. Carla recently joined the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra as Director of Marketing and Sales. Carla welcomes all alum from those *great days* to contact her at carlabcampbell@shaw.ca.
Jim Campbell (BM 1976, MM 1978) jbcamp00@uky.edu
Professor of Percussion at the University of Kentucky; Principal Percussionist with Lexington Philharmonic; Past President of the Percussive Arts Society; clinician for Yamaha, Zildjian, Innovative Percussion, Latin Percussion, Evans Drumheads; wife Nancy (NIU BM in Music Education '80), sons Colin and Sean.
Anne Carmel (BM 2001) annegcarmel@hotmail.com
Anne completed her second bachelor's degree here at NIU, in Clinical Laboratory Sciences, in May 2003. Following graduation Anne moved to Chicago and was employed in the labs at the University of Chicago. In December 2003 Anne began work in "latent prints" (forensics) for the Illinois State Police Department, and she is now living in
Joe Cascio (BM 1994)
Clark Chaffee ( BM 1979) cchaffee@district125.k12.il.us
I'm wrapping up my 20th season as Principal Timpanist with the Elgin Symphony Orchestra, and in my 2nd year as Director of Orchestras at Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire, IL. This year I joined the faculty of the Music Institute of Chicago as a conductor and chamber music coach. My daughter Sarah and I continue to enjoy our daily cello practicing together.
Frank Chapple (BM 1997) fec@coollink.net
I'm currently a full-time private lesson teacher in Lewisville, TX. I teach approximately 60 lessons a week ranging from 6th-12th graders. I also teach the high school drumline and percussion ensemble. As of this week, I am attempting to receive a full-time percussion position with a new high school. This includes teaching beginner percussion classes at the middle school level and overseeing all percussion activities at the high school. I'm starting my tenth year of drum corps instruction, and my third year with the Glassmen Drum & Bugle Corps from Toledo, OH.
Frank Check (BM 2006)
Frank will begin his MM program here at NIU in the fall of 2006 with a specialization in World Percussion. We're very happy to still have him here!
Larry Colletti (BM 1979) ladjmv@mchsi.com
After graduating from NIU in 1979, Larry taught percussion part-time for two years while making a career change into the Information Technology field. Since 1980 Larry has held various positions with two major disaster recovery technology companies and is currently working as a Senior Sales Support Engineer for one of those companies based in Rosemont, Illinois. Larry and Bea, married for 25 years, have three sons: Luke - 23, Dominic - 17, and Michael - 15. Larry has played part-time with bands over the years and is currently playing percussion and keyboard with a band named "Digression."
Jim Conley (BM 1979, MS in Business 1990) facs3jc@rvc.cc.il.us
I am an Assistant Professor at Rock Valley College in Rockford where I teach in the Computers and Information Systems Division. I play drums in "Men of Our Times," which has been together for 18 years! We mainly play weddings and private events. I've been married to Cyndi for 12 years, and we have two children, Brenna (5) and Tyler (3).
Jim Cooper (MM 1995)
Having lived and performed for many years in Chicago, Jim is now living in Michigan and teaching at Lake Michigan College in Benton Harbor, Michigan. He's also the Artistic Director of Lakeshore Jazz Connection based in Saugatuck, Michigan. You can visit his website here.
John Cope (BM 2005)
John is back at NIU pursuing studies in Business Marketing. When he's not in class he's running the marching band drumline for Burlington Central High school and teaching percussion in the western suburbs.
Dale Crawford (BM 1984)
Dale is living and performing in Saskatoon, Canada.
Doug Dale (BM 1991)
Jennifer Damian (MM 1999) marimbajenne@hotmail.com
Jenne is living in the
Joel Davel (BM 1988) joel@isproductions.com
website: www.isproductions.com
Focusing on marimba in a small group format, Joel's been free-lancing and recording in the San Francisco Bay Area with a variety of original ensembles. Joel frequently performs with electronics and spends much of his time prototyping new innovative electronic percussion controllers with designer Don Buchla.
Shawn Davis (BM 2004)
Shawn is actively playing drums in and around the Chicago area, and building his home recording studio. Shawn is also a sales manager at the Circuit City store in McHenry, Illinois, and his sales team is a national leader for the company!
Tom Deastlov (MM 1994) tdeastlov@aol.com
Tom owns and operates and teaches percussion at First Chair Music Studios in North Royalton,Ohio.
Brian Deck (BM 1986)
Brian is a freelance drummer/percussionist and owns and operates Clava recording studios in Chicago.
Elizabeth DeLamater (BM 1997) edelamater@hotmail.com
Elizabeth graduated from The Florida State University with a Masters in Performance in 1999. Beginning with the fall of 2007 Elizabeth is pursuing her DMA at Arizona State University. In the years in-between she has been percussionist/assistant timpanist with the Madison Symphony Orchestra, and a member of the Salt Creek Ballet and the Mendelssohn Chamber Orchestra. Elizabeth was the Director of Steelbands and percussion at Waubonsee Community College, and Director of Steelbands for Indian Prairie District 204. She was also adjunct faculty of North Central College and the Chicago College of Performing Arts. In the summers Elizabeth teaches at the Birch Creek Music Center and the UW-Madison Summer Music Clinic.
Bob Devita (BM 1977)
I am teaching percussion and working as a freelance musician in the Northern Illinois/Southern Wisconsin area. In 1987 I contributed to Jack Brand's Fusion Drum Book, by writing an entire chapter of drumset transcriptions in the style of Steve Gadd. I wrote all of the transcriptions for the critically acclaimed book Shelly Manne: Sounds of the Different Drummer, which was published in 1997.
Christian Dobirr (MM 1988)
Chris is performing with several bands in Germany, including the Galapagos Big Band and The Edinger Choir (which specializes in pop and jazz).
Joe Dorenbos (BM 1994) joe@dorenbosmusic.com
Joe performs with and contracts his own swing band in Chicago. As well, he has played along side such artists as Tito Puente, Charo, and Ben Vereen.
Bruce Duguid (BA 1970) duguidb@juno.com
I have been a church Music Director for 34 years, now working when I am called as a fill-in at my church. I have written two anthems this year for St. Andrew UMC in Carol Stream, IL. I have been a music and arts critic, a marketing and inside sales representative and writer for newspapers, magazines, and the Internet. My new book, a group of humerous essays, satire and spoofs entitled "U.C.'s Misguide To American Life" is now searching for a publisher. I am married to Sharlene and am a father of three daughters and a grandfather of five and currently reside in
Dan Dunn (BM ?)
Scott Elford (BM 1996)
Scott is teaching percussion through a music store in Fon du Lac, Wisconsin, is the percussion instructor and percussion ensemble director at Fon du Lac High School, and performs as Timpanist with the Fon du Lac Symphonic Band. Scott and his wife Erica have three lovely daughters.
Pete Ellingson (BM 1999) pete_ellingson@hotmail.com
Following his years at NIU, Pete completed his MM in percussion performance at Arizona State University. Pete Ellingson is now living in Denver and working as a freelance performer and teacher. He is adjunct faculty at Colorado Christian University where he serves as the percussion instructor as well as teaching some piano. He is also adjunct faculty at the University of Colorado at Denver where he teaches ear training and music appreciation. He also teaches privately a few hours a week. Pete regularly performs on the weekends, working a variety of jazz, latin, and dance music gigs at the clubs and through Moments Notice Entertainment.
Bill Elliott (MM 1991)
Bill is a Percussionist with the U.S. Army Field Band in Washington, D.C., and he is the instructor of percussion at the Community Colleges of Baltimore County, Maryland.
Brandon Estes (MM 2006)
Following one year as the Assistant Band Director/Percussion Instructor at Langham Creek High School in the Cypress-Fairbanks section of Houston, Texas, Brandon is back in the Chicago area teaching at Lincoln Elementary School in Addison.
Rich Ford (BM 2006)
Rich completed his BM degree in Music Education and has joined the US Army Band at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
Alan Frye (BM 2007) afrye@hse.k12.in.us
I am currently living in Fishers, Indiana, where I am the percussion director for Hamilton Southeastern High School. I assist with the concert bands and teach percussion ensemble as well as beginning percussion at the intermediate school. Between that and private lessons, I am keeping pretty busy. Our marching band won the Mid-States Band Association Grand Championship and our percussion ensemble is currently competing in the Indiana Percussion Associations's Scholastic Concert Open class. We're playing an arrangement I did of (NIU percussion alum) Ben Wahlund's "Crystal Butterfly" and having a blast with it.
Eric Ganci (BM 2002) iamganci@hotmail.com
After teaching band at Millburn Middle School in Antioch, Illinois for several years, beginning with the fall of 2006 Eric is a student at the Thomas Jefferson School of Law in San Diego, California. His goal after law school is to specialize in entertainment law. We wish Eric the best with his new pursuit.
Kirk Gay (BM 1991)
Kirk lives in Orlando, Florida. After several years as a Composer/Arranger/Music Director at Walt Disney World, Kirk is on the faculty of the University of Central Florida, where he teaches private percussion, directs the steel band, and instructs the marching band drum line. He is the principal percussionist for the Brevard Symphony, plays as a section percussionist with the Orlando Philharmonic, and performs at Disney during the holiday season in their Candlelight Orchestra. His wife is a dance teacher at a high school in Orlando. Kirk says they have no children yet, but they have plenty of dogs and cats!
Lucas Gillan (BM 2007)
Lucas has moved into Chicago to begin his freelance jazz drumming career.
Tim Glander (BM 1973)
Teaching in the public schools in Vermont.
Kristen Glidden (BM 2004)
We're not sure what Kristen is up to!
David M. Gordon (BM 1998, MM 2000)
David is working towards his Ph. D. in composition at the University of Chicago.
Aubrey Granner (BM 2005) gran0444@tc.umn.edu
Aubrey is pursing his Master's degree in Percussion Performance and serves as a graduate teaching assistant at the University of Minnesota School of Music. Aubrey also founded and leads a steel band, ColdSteel, which regularly performs parties, weddings and corporate events in the Twin Cities area. For more info check out their website. Aubrey's teaching several private students in the community, and performed in 2006 as an extra with the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra for their tribute to Elliott Carter. Aubrey and his long-time girlfriend Amanda were married in June of 2006. In the spring of 2007, Aubrey completed work as solo pannist on Target Corporation's latest CD project, a reggae-flavored recording.
Nate Green (BM 2000) hittingstuff@yahoo.com
Nate has developed a freelance career and also teaches in the Chicago area. He recently made the big move from DeKalb to Chicago to eliminate much of his commute!
Dean Gronemeier (BA 1985) grone@ccmail.nevada.edu
Dean is the Associate Dean of the College of Fine Arts and Professor of Percussion at University of Nevada-Las Vegas; marimba touring artist, with performances throughout the United States, and in Mexico, England, France, Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Australia, and Chile; clinician for Yamaha, Sabian, and Mike Balter Mallets. Dean also recently completed his law degree and passed the bar exam in Nevada in the fall of 2002.
Adam Grosso (BM 2000)
Adam served as a GA in percussion at the University of Iowa. Having completed his master's degree, Adam is living is Iowa City and teaching and gigging - on both percussion and bass!
Jennifer Guy (BA 1998) jguy0015@yahoo.com
Jennifer completed her Master of Education degree in Student Services Administration at the University of North Texas in 2002, and is working as the Academic Coordinator of the Physiology department at the University of Maryland - Baltimore. Jennifer is currently teaching and performing Middle Eastern Dance (aka Bellydancing) in her free time in the Baltimore/DC area in addition to studying and playing doumbek in her classes. She specializes in playing zils (finger cymbals) and turkish spoons.
Tim Hammond (BM 1987)
Iajhi Hampden (MM 2005)
Iajhi is playing with a Michael Jackson tribute band that tours all over the United States.
John Haney (BM 2006) Drmmr01@aol.com
John spent 3 years while finishing his degree at NIU as Assistant Marching Band Director and Director of Percusion for the internationally recognized United Township High School band program of East Moline, IL. Currently, John is Director of Bands at Durand CUSD #322 in Durand, Il, where he resides. John is responsible for beginning band, 6th grade band, Junior High band, and all High School bands including concert, marching, pep, jazz and chamber ensembles. John was recently appointed Vice President for District 4 of the Illinois Grade School Music Association. In addition, John performs regularly with the Sterling Municipal Symphony Band and the Rockford Wind Ensemble. Everyone is encouraged to drop him an email at any time!
Harold Headley (MM 1992)
Percussion and Steelpan Instructor at University of the West Indies in Trinidad.
Cory Healey (BM 2006)
Cory is living and freelancing in Chicago. His main gig is as drummer for the Fareed Haque Group.
Kirk Hickman (BM 2002) kirkus8@hotmail.com
Kirk is the band director at Johnsburg High School in McHenry, Illinois, and is the Instructor of Percussion at McHenry County (IL) College. Kirk also performs as a section percussionist with the North Shore Concert Band.
Tom Hipskind (BM 1994) hipskind@starnetinc.com or Thipdrum@aol.com
Since graduation from NIU, Tom has played all over the Chicago area. He toured the country and recorded two CDs ("Modern Life," "After Hours," Mesa/Bluemoon) with "smooth" jazz artist Brian Culbertson. He has also performed with Patricia Barber, Fred Simon, Howard Levy, Steve Rodby, Diane Delin and many others. He has recorded on many Chicago-based artists' CDS, including Ryan Cohan's "Real World," Deanna Witkowski's "Having To Ask," Diane Delin's "Origins," and the most recent by NIU alum Rob Parton's JazzTech big band, "Fascinatin' Rhythm." He conducted an interview with jazz great Peter Erskine for the Jazz Educator's Journal (Nov. '97), and serves on the faculty of Columbia College in Chicago.
Todd Howell (BM 1995)
Todd is teaching privately and freelancing in Chicago, and has performed with the city's best and most creative jazz musicians including Ira Sullivan, Bobby Broom, Ron Perrillo, Ryan Cohan, and many others.
Chiung-Wen Hsu (BM 1994, MM 1996)
Principal Teaching Assistant for Ju Percussion franchises in Taiwan. In fall 2005, Chiung-Wen ("Kitty") returned to NIU, to pursue a Performer's Certificate.
Otto Huber (BM 1994)
Blake Jancius (BM 2000, MM 2004) bjancius@cusd200.org
Blake is the director of bands at
Matt Janes (BM 2005)
Matt continues his career working with several high school drumlines in the Chicago suburbs, directing a winter drumline, and teaching privately in Joliet, Illinois. He is a member of the Pioneer Drum and Bugle Corps staff and is a member of the Vic Firth Education Team.
Patrick Jenkins (BM 2006)
Patrick has accepted a postion as a minister of music, and (as he is also a guitarist) has a duo he is performing with regularly.
Eric Johnson (BM 1998)
After a successful stint performing and touring with the reggae/ska band Mr. Myers, Eric is now an audiologist.
Kristi Kief (BM 2002) gatorchick25@yahoo.com
Kristi is living in Brisbane, Australia, after several years of gainful employment as an alligator handler (yes, you read that right!) at Gatorland Theme Park in Orlando, Florida. She is working for the World Society for the Protection of Animals. As she only recently arrived in Brisbane (June 2007), she has yet to make contacts for gigs, but she is planning on doing that soon!
Richard "Ted" Klauer (BM 1976) Richard.Klauer@allina.com
Following graduation from NIU in 1976 I completed my MA in percussion performance at West Virginia University in 1978. After several years of public school teaching gigs in Illinois, Iowa, and Minnesota (and numerous performing experiences along the way), I am now a computer business analyst for a large health care organization in Minneapolis. I have been married for 21 years with two wonderful children -- life is full of musical and sporting adventures with them. Not a day goes by that I do not reflect upon the wonderful teaching I received at NIU through the Blackearth group and the amazing musical experiences engineered by Al O'Connor! I take no small pride in having been a member of the percussion ensemble, African percussion ensemble, and original NIU Steel Band during my years at NIU.
Alan Knudson (BM 2001)
Alan is living and freelancing in Chicago. He teaches percussion at Nequa Valley High School in Naperville, and teaches percussion and directs the marching drum line and the percussion ensemble at Lake Zurich High School.
Scott Kovar (BM 1989) kkovar@rconnect.com
Scott was a professional society band leader in Chicago for more than ten years, and currently lives in Rochester, Minnesota, where he maintains a private percussion studio and freelances. Scott also spent several years working for IBM, home of the AS400 and RISC6000 computer systems, involved in manufacturing and quality control.
Jeff Kowalski (BM 197?)
Percussionist with a chamber orchestra in Israel, teaching in several schools there.
Ken Krafthefer (BM 1991)
Ken is the Head Tuner for Ludwig/Musser Industries.
Garry Kvistad (MM 1977)
I was a member of The Blackearth Percussion Group, which got its start at NIU where I took courses in woodworking, metal working, and acoustics. I used this knowledge to start my business, Woodstock Percussion, making windchimes. I have been playing with Steve Reich and Musicians since 1980. Our release of Music for 18 musicians (Nonesuch) won a Grammy in 1999. I have two teenage daughters (both better looking and smarter than I) and my wife, Diane Herrick-Kvistad, graduated from NIU in 1972. In the fall of 2002 I joined the percussion group NEXUS.
Dave Lang (BM 1976)
Music Department Chair and Band Director at William Fremd (Palatine, IL) High School.
Erik Leckrone (BM 1996) eleckrone@worldnet.att.net
Erik completed his Master's in Percussion Performance in May 1999 at Cal State - Long Beach. He is living 60 yards from the Pacific Ocean in Long Beach, and, having previously worked as musician and music director for Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm, is now a member of the music faculty at Fullerton College in California. Erik performs in the LA area with several local symphonies and is active in the studio scene. Erik played percussion on the early 2004 release of the Disney recording "A World of Happiness" which features Deborah Harry, Isaac Hayes, Lou Rawls and several other top entertainers. He's very active performing with the Robin Cox Ensemble.
Rodney Ledbetter (BM 1988) rodney406@gis.net
I am still living and freelancing in New York City. I play with quite a few bands and have been on the road pretty much every weekend since February of 1999!! Mostly, though, I've been producing electronic and dance music for a few years now and just signed a contract for an EP deal with Nervous Records. I have my own project studio that I'm very happy with, and am really enjoying being a producer.
Kevin Lehman (BM 1995)
Keith Lienert (BM 2000) kal90814@yahoo.com
Keith completed his MM in Percussion Performance at Arizona State University in 2003, and then taught at Mesa Community College and performed in the Phoenix area. Keith then moved back to the Chicago area, where he taught at Elgin Community College. Keith now resides in Madison, Wisconsin, where his wife is completing her graduate studies, and Keith freelances and teaches privately.
Kathy (Brown) Lowry (MM 1982)
Kathy is living and teaching public school music in upstate New York.
Steve Lundin (MM 2003)
Having taught in two other school districts, since the fall of 2006 Steve has been a member of the music faculty in the DeKalb School District. He continues to perform with the Base4 Percussion Quartet which released its first cd during the fall of 2004. Steve recently married Emily and they are happy to be living and working in
Steve Lurie (MM 1997)
Steve is the founder and president of Music Without Borders, LLC, in Stamford, Connecticut. As Vice President and Co-Owner of Al Franklin's Musical World in Greenwich, CT, Steve helped build one of the finest and most highly regarded music and electronics retailers in the country. As a faculty member at the University of Hartford's Hartt School of Music in Hartford, CT, Steve teaches courses in music business and music management, and was recently hired to develop a music business program at The New School in New York City.
Chris Mahan (MM 2007)
Chris won the audition as section percussion for the Fargo-Moorhead Symphony Orchestra. Congratulations, Chris!
Sue (Hoffman) Manaois (MM 1993)
Sue is living in Texas, and continues an active career playing pan. You can check out more information at www.sweetsteel.com.
Mark Marzocco (BM 1998) beatcat@hotmail.com
Mark was in the London, England world premiere cast of "Blast," and performed with the troupe as they brought the show to the first two U.S. cities. He now lives in Chicago, contracting and performing. He has been involved with a performance group, CAMP (Creative Arts Melting Pot), for a few years. Mark writes, directs, and performs all the music, and the group includes two modern dancers who choreograph and perform, and a stand up comic who specializes in improvised monologues.
Ray McNamarra (BM 1983) RAYPANMAN@aol.com
I am still teaching at Fullerton College (California), and am also the Music Director for the Dance Department at U.C. Riverside. I currently lead my own band the Calypso Pirates with many performances throughout the Los Angeles area. I also have a Percussion duo called Damaru. We explore sonic timbres ranging from body music to electronics. Most recent projects include: "A Bug's Life" (Disney Pictures), The Rossane Show (ABC Television), Steel Pan Clinic at Calarts with Boogsie Sharpe, The Fullerton Jazz Festival and The Orange Blossom Festival with the Big Bamboo Steel Band featuring Robert Greenidge. I will be getting married to Jeanna Shelton, a modern dancer, in July of 1999. I miss everyone at NIU, and would love to hear from people!
Kim Mellin (BM 1991) kimhm682000@yahoo.com
Kim moved to Salt Lake City in 1993, primarily providing accompaniment for dance companies which included the University of Utah dance department, the Repertory Dance Theatre, and the Ririe Woodbury Dance Company. For many years she performed with an African ensemble and a Brazilian ensemble, and taught world percussion private lessons. Kim has recently returned to school, where she is pursuing a 2-year degree in Information Computer Media.
Bill Miles (BM 1985)
Erich Miller (MM 1985) edm2@mail.idt.net
website: Erichmiller.com
I am a journeyman musician in Los Angeles, working as a percussionist but primarily known as a pan player. My most notable recent projects have included Speed 2, USA networks "Lost in Paradise" and a soon to be released CD for Pier One Imports. I have also been very active with the Libertarian Party, thrice as a congressional candidate and by helping to enlist Musician's Union Local 47 support in stopping a very regressive, Los Angeles City, home office tax. My wife Beth and I will soon celebrate our sixteenth wedding anniversary. We are growing up with our two-year old daughter, Abigail.
Kevin Miller (BM 1980) kjmiller@d211.org
I am currently the music department Chair/band director at Schaumburg High School in Schaumburg, Illinois. The music department at Schaumburg High School was selected by the Grammy Foundation as a Grammy Signature School in 2004. My wife, Michelle, and I have two children: Alex, 16 years old (a percussionist), and Meghan, 21 years old. We live in Schaumburg, Illinois.
Eric Montzka (BM 1991) EMontzka@aol.com
I've been freelancing (mostly jazz) in the Chicago area since graduating. Of late, my busiest employer has been singer/pianist Patricia Barber, with whom I've been touring the States a bit. We'll be touring across Canada and Europe this summer. I'm on 2 CDS awaiting release (the Moulder/Montzka/Sill trio and the Karl Montzka organ band) of which I'm quite proud, and should be doing a live recording with Patricia this summer. Drop by the Green Mill on a Monday night and say Hi!
Matt Moore (BM 1998) mmoore@d211.org
Matt Moore has been the Director of Bands at William Fremd High School in Palatine, Illinois since the fall of 2001. He was previously the band director at Jacobs High School (Algonquin, IL) and Stillman Valley High School and Meridian Junior High School in Stillman Valley, Illinois. The band program at Fremd has grown from 160 to 300 students during Matt's tenure and Matt keeps way too busy there! Matt has been married to his wife Amanda since 2001 and they have two wonderful children, Kyle (born 2004) and Kiera (born 2005). The quartet and their springer-spaniel (Dodger) reside in Streamwood, Illinois. Matt welcomes email from any and all!
Kreg Moorhouse (BM 1999) kreg@foxvalley.net
Kreg is still teaching several students and is now working as the Technical Director for Student Programs at Willow Creek Community Church in Barrington, IL.
Jon Mortensen (BM 1982) DavidJonMortensen@u-46.net or mortensen_jon@hotmail.com
Band Director, Kenyon Woods Middle School, U-46; Principal Timpani, Rockford Symphony Orchestra & Woodstock Mozart Festival Orchestra; Director of Music, Spring Creek Congregational Church, Rockford, Il; Conductor, American Grands Piano Festivals; M.Ed, National Louis University, 1999; three children, Tristan, Ned, Emma.
Lennard Moses (MM 1983)
Professor of Percussion at Central State University (OH).
Allene Muhling Slagle (BM 1988)
Allene is a medical assistant at a surgical center in the Chicago suburbs.
Dennis Mulder (BM 1991)
Dennis is teaching at Wheaton North High School in Wheaton, Illinois.
Brent Mullane (MM 1995)
Brent and his wife Ingrid are elementary school music teachers in Huntley, Illinois.
Beverly Naiditch (BM 1974) bevnaiditch@wssymphony.org
I am currently beginning my eleventh season as Production/Stage Manager for the Winston-Salem Piedmont Triad Symphony in North Carolina. I am also the Assistant Principal Percussionist of the Greensboro Symphony, and have been the Stage Manager for The Eastern Music Festival since 1989. I also do freelance work with other area orchestras and am a member of Local 574 of the I.A.T.S.E (International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees). My biggest accomplishment while attending NIU, however, was being a founding member of the DeKalb Footstompers (formerly, The Greater DeKalb Area Municipal Footstompin' Ensemble).
Mike Newmark (BM 1989) michael@newmarkproductions.com
http://www.newmarkproductions.com
Mike married Diane, whom he met while they were both inhabitants of Gilbert Hall. They have a son, Nathan, born in 1996, and a daughter, Natalie, born during the big snow storm of January 3, 1999!! Mike still books and plays with "The Michael Newmark Orchestra" (see website), and owns his own vending machine company which keeps him busy during the days.
David Nutting (BM 1993) davidnutting@gmail.com
After completing his Master's degree at UNLV and then teaching high school band in Las Vegas, Nevada for several years, Dave is now the Senior Pastor at North City Presbyterian Church in Poway, California (near San Diego). Dave continues to play as much as possible. He and his wife Priscilla have two daughters and one son.
Kerry O'Brien (BM 2006)
Kerry is working on her Ph.D. in Musicology at the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University - Bloomington.
Dave O'Fallon (BSEd 1977, MSEd 1987, MM 1993) davideofallon@aol.com
www.alfred.com (see authors and clinicians) and www.jamaicanbreeze.net
Dave never received a percussion degree, although he was often seen in the company of drummers - a fact that remains true to the present day. Dave frequently appears as an extra or substitute percussionist with the Chicago Symphony and leads his own group, Jamaican Breeze. By day, Dave teaches orchestra in Wheaton and teaches developmental reading at the College of DuPage.
Linda Orlandi (BM 2005) lvorlandi@msn.com
Linda is teaching general music grades 1 through 6 at three schools in the La Grange (IL) school district.
Mark Ott (BM 1983)
Allen Otte (MM 1977)
Professor of Percussion at the Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music; founding member of The Percussion Group - Cincinnati.
Carl Pampel (BM 1965)
Carl married Carol Schultz (see immediately below) and they had 3 children and 5 grandchildren, all of whom are musical. Carl went on to be a chemist but has continued performing throughout his life. Carl played in rock and roll bands in the ‘60’s and ‘70’s, and upon the family’s move to Atlanta in 1976 became timpanist with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Carl has been involved in directing music at churches, and is currently living in Orlando, Florida, where he plays drums at his church there.
Carol Schultz Pampel (BM 1965)
After graduation from NIU Carol married Carl Pampel (see above). She was a teacher and professional musician performing in a wide variety of venues. Carol played in rock and roll bands in the ‘60’s and ‘70’s, and sang and played guitar in a folk trio. She became the Minister of Music at Holy Family Catholic Church in Atlanta, and sang the National Anthem at many Atlanta professional sports events. She continued to play in bands and was in demand for weddings nearly every Saturday! Carol did studio work for many commercials and her voice can still be heard making automated announcements on the trains and in the terminals of Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. We are sorry to report that Carol passed away in 1995.
Joe Pasteris (BM 1989) drumbeat60115@yahoo.com
Joe is employed by the NIU Housing and Dining Office. Joe performs with the DeKalb Municipal Band and the Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra, with The Uptown Cats, and also with various big bands and dixieland bands.
Scott Persky (BM 1975)
Scott is the Chair of the department of Computer Information Systems at McHenry Community College in Crystal Lake, Illinois, and he remains active performing on steel pan throughout the Chicago area.
John Pobojewski (BM 2003) john@3st.com
John completed both a BM in Performance as well as a BFA in Visual Communication. He is currently living in Elgin, IL, working for the design firm Thirst (located in Barrington), and performing with the Base4 Percussion Quartet. In March 2007 Print magazine honored John as one of 20 notable talents under the age of 30. The article is also online here. Congratulations, John!
Dan Prowse (BM 1986)
Dan is teaching percussion and directing the steel band at College of Lake County in Grayslake, IL.
Aaron Puckett (MM 2001) aaron_puckett@hotmail.com
Aaron is a member of the music faculty at Kaneland (IL) High School. He continues to freelance and teach privately in the Chicago suburban area.
Jeannine Remy (BM 1985, MM 1987) remyjean@tstt.net.tt
Having served for many years as Professor of Percussion at Idaho State University; in the fall of 2003 Jeannine began her new position as professor of percussion, steelpan, and ethnomusicology at the University of the West Indies in St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago. In the fall of 1998 Jeannine became the first foreigner to conduct and arrange for a Trinidadian steel band: Invaders Steel Orchestra, Woodbrook, Port-of-Spain.
Ed Richard (BA 1970, MM 1971)
Upon leaving NIU, I became an elementary band director and have taught public school for 26 years. My wife teaches vocal music with me in Marengo (IL), and we have also been involved with the Methodist Church as organist and choir director.
Jim Roberts (MM 1985) thebeat111@hotmail.com
website: http://jimrobertspercussion.com/index.html
I've just completed my second CD project called "Two Traditions," featuring The Horse Flies, Chad Crumm, Rickie Simpkins, Nery Arevalo, and Nancy Sluys. It is a "wild, sometimes moody combination of old-time string band instruments and an array of hand drums and other percussion from the traditions of West Africa and Cuba." You can read more information about it on my web site. My first CD was Ancient Hand "Tranze is the Danze," for which I was principal writer and producer. I recorded on Victor Wooten's "What Did He Say" and "Bass Extreme" CDs, and toured North America as percussionist for MCA recording artist Billy Dean on the 1996 Reba MacIntire tour.
I now have my own recording studio. You may view more about it at http://www.indiecellar.com/kalimbastudio/
Brent Roman (BM 2002) brent@brentroman.com
In the fall of 2002 Brent won the audition and accepted the position as percussionist with Cirque du Soliel. Following a successful run with Cirque, Brent is now living and freelancing in the Chicago area, and touring with the Trinity Irish Dance Company. You can check out his website here.
Jim Ross (BM 1971)
Jim has been a percussionist with Chicago Symphony Orchestra since 1979, and is also a faculty member at Northwestern University. Jim is married, and he and his wife Andrea have a son, Gregory, born in '95 and a daughter Annie born in 2000. Jim is a late starter.
Paul G. Ross (BM 1987, MM 1996) panpgr@concentric.net
website: www.panpress.com
After many years as Director of Steel Bands at Elgin Community College and Harper College and also Percussion Instructor at ECC, Paul is now running his business (Pan Press Inc., a steel pan publications company) full-time and directing and performing with his steel band, Pan Go. Paul recently released the debut CD with the Pan Go Steel Band with nine original compositions.
Dave Rush (BM ?)
Dave is living in Chicago and performs with, among other groups, Jamaican Breeze with fellow alum Dave O'Fallon.
Tim Rush (BM 1999) TimRush77@aol.com
Tim has completed his MM in Percussion Performance at Arizona State University, and is currently residing, teaching and performing in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Kirk Rustman (MM 1996) krustman@mac.com
Kirk has lived in Las Vegas, Nevada, since 2002, where he is a member of the band for the Mamma Mia! show, subs for other shows, and does quite a bit of private teaching. He says he feels as though he's been on vacation the entire time he's been there!
Cynthia Rutledge (BM 1993)
Cynthia left teaching positions at Benedictine University and Waubonsee Community College to return to NIU to complete requirements for Illinois teacher certification. Since she earned her certification we haven't heard from her!!
Rich Rychel (BM 1989) rrychel@msn.com
After playing in show bands for four major cruise lines and covering most of the globe, I moved to
Tony SanFilippo (BM 1992) drumsound@animail.net
Tony SanFilippo is the owner and chief engineer and producer of Oxide Lounge Recording in
Suzanne Satterfield (MM 1995)
Suzanne is teaching elementary music in Kaneland Schools (IL) and freelancing in Northern Illinois area. She's married to our very own Robert Chappell!
Patrick Schleker (BM 2004)
Beginning with the fall of 2006, Pat is the Principal Timpanist of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra. Pat completed his MM degree at Cleveland State University where he studied with Tom Freer of the Cleveland Orchestra, and he continues to perform with the Base4 Percussion Quartet.
Satanand Sharma (MM 2002)
Satanand is a professor of music at The University of the West Indies.
Damen Short (BM 1977, MM 1979) damonshort@compuserve.com
website: http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/DamonShort
I live in Chicago and perform in a variety of ensembles, mostly original jazz, mostly drums with some vibes, also written & improvised 'classical.' Three albums of my own music with two pending release. Married since 1986 to Kathy Laack, our son Eric is 9.
Chris Smith (BM 2004)
Chris completed his MM degree in jazz studies at the Manhattan School of Music in 2006 and is living in New York City. He directs a community percussion ensemble in Harlem, freelances in and around NYC, and has several private students. Chris is married to NIU music alum Nina (Bender), BM 2004. His latest successful project is performing with C Phineas.
Jared Spears (BM 1958) jspears@insolwwb.net
Jared owns a celebrated career as a composer. With over 250 published compositions performed throughout the world, he is one of the most recognized names in band literature. Jared just completed a commission for the United States Army Band ("Pershing's Own"), and in May 1999 retired from his professorship at Arkansas State University. He plans to compose more, travel, and spend time with his wife and young daughter.
Vern Spevack (BM 1981) Vernmusic@aol.com
Currently resides in Yorkville, IL with wife Eileen and three children. Member of the NIU jazz ensemble, under Ron Modell, '77-'81. Won a Chicago Emmy award with Louie Bellson ('84) for a performance on WTTW's "A Year In the Life Of the Greatest College Jazz Band in America." Currently works as a percussion instructor with a large weekly roster of private students, and is endorsed by Vic Firth Inc. and Remo Inc. Current projects include composer, drums, percussion and lead vocals with the Christian band "Providence," a not-for-profit entity which performs in Christian venues throughout the Midwest and benefits local children's charities. New CD titled "Message to the World" recently released (See www.providenceworship.com).
Jeff Stacks (BM 1990) jstacks@blackhawk.edu
After graduation, I married Kristin Anderson (another NIU alumni) and moved to Nashville, TN for a few years. During my time there, I obtained another degree in Computer Information Systems and went to work for American General Life and Accident as a Development Analyst. After five years and two kids (Blake and Ryan) I moved back north to Janesville, WI, and went to work at American Family Insurance in the same analyst capacity. I also started teaching part-time at Blackhawk Technical College here in Janesville, and, after a year and a half, they hired me as full-time faculty and program advisor for the CIS-Microcomputer Specialist degree program. I can be reached at jstacks@blackhawk.edu.
Eric Stassen (BM 1990) ems2v@virginia.edu
Having served for many years as Professor of Percussion and conductor/music director of Opera at the University of Virginia as well as performing with and conducting several regional ensembles in Virginia and North Carolina, Eric is returning to school in the fall of 2006, as a doctoral candidate in the conducting program at Northwestern University.
Julie Stephens Jaskula (MM 1995) julie@sweetsteel.com
Website: www.sweetsteel.com
Julie is busy as a pannist in the San Diego area, where she has been since the summer of 1999. In early 2001 she married Marius Jaskula and their daughter Jaklyn was born in January of 2002.
Carl Storniolo (BM 1989) storniol@execpc.com
Paula and I are now proud parents of two children, one boy and one girl. I have been lucky enough to have a performing career here in Milwaukee and in Chicago since 1990. Having recently completed my MM at University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee, I am now the director of percussion studies there.
Steve Sweigart (BM 1980)
Recently retired, was Percussion Instructor at Waubonsee Community College in Sugar Grove, IL.
Arnold Sykes (BM 1982)
Principal Percussionist with Greensboro (NC) Symphony Orchestra and founding member of the Philidor Percussion Group. Beginning with the fall 2003 semester the Philidor Percussion Group has been named Ensemble-in-Residence at the North Carolina School of the Arts.
Liam Teague (BM 1997, MM 1999) lteague@niu.edu
Liam's performing career continues to skyrocket, and we are pleased that we have added him to the percussion staff here at NIU.
Pam Thamm (BM ?)
Jeff Thomas (BM 1976)
Matt Thomas (MM 2000)
Matt is a percussionist with the Air Force Band of the Golden West, and serves as an officer in the California chapter of the Percussive Arts Society.
Rich Trelease (BM 1980)
Rich has been the house percussionist in the pit orchestra at the Drury Lane Oak Brook Theatre in Oak Brook Terrace, Illinois. He recently also assumed the position of musical contractor. On another front, he will be receiving his master's degree in clinical psychology from Wheaton College in May 1999 and plans on pursuing a part-time private practice as a psychologist. Rich married Linda, also a musician, in 1994, and they recently purchased their home in Glen Ellyn. Lastly, he wants all percussion alums from 1976-80 to know that he misses you and would welcome an e-mail.
Denise Valient (MM 1986)
Darin Wadley (BM 1992) dwadley@usd.edu
Having taught for several years at Southern Utah University, as of the fall 2004 semester Darin is the Director of Percussion Studies at the University of South Dakota. He is married to Holly Haddad and has two sons, Logan and Patrick.
Lee Wagner (MM 1989)
Lee is one of the band directors and director of the percussion ensemble at Stoughton High School in Stoughton, Wisconsin.
Ben Wahlund (MM, PC 2005) bwahlund@hotmail.com
Ben Wahlund lives in the
Doug Walker (MM 1992) DWalker@the-beach.net
Doug works as a musician in Miami. You can check out his work with steel drums at http://www.thesteelbandstore.com.
Erin Walker Bliss (BM 2002) ewalk@uky.edu
Erin completed her MM in Percussion Performance at DePaul University in Chicago, where she studied with Ted Atkatz of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Mike Green of the Lyric Opera Orchestra. She is currently nearing completion of her DMA in Percussion Performance at the University of Kentucky, where she studies with NIU alum Jim Campbell. In the fall of 2006 she will begin a Ph.D. program in Musicology there as well. Most importantly, in June 2006 Erin married NIU percussion alum Andy Bliss. Congratulations Erin and Andy!
Jim Walker (MM 1990, PC 1997) jameswalker@malletjazz.com website: http://www.malletjazz.com/
Currently residing in Connecticut, freelancing as a jazz vibraphonist, steel panist, and clinician; contributing writer, Jazz Player Magazine; married Sara Vokes, October '98.
Ben Weaver (BM 1998) benmusic@hotmail.com
Ben is living in Nashville, TN, freelancing as a percussionist, playing side drum (snare) in a Scottish Pipe and Drum group called the Nashville Pipes and Drums, and working part-time at Treeworks Chimes.
Virginia Weibel (MM 1998) bali60115@yahoo.com
After earning a second Master of Music degree from NIU in composition, Virginia is attending the University of Michigan working toward her teaching certification and studying with Michael Udow.
Eric Wermager (BM 1984) is working for Geffen Records.
Ken White (BM 1977) drummerarranger@msn.com
Ken plays regularly with six different big bands in the Chicago area as drummer, arranger and vocalist. He also plays with a 1960's rhythm and blues band, "The Houndz," which has been together since 1994.
Warren Whitely (BM 1974)
Warren lives in Park Ridge, IL, and maintains a home recording studio which he is currently updating to digital.
Jim Widlowsky (BM 1983)
Jim is the drummer for the Chicago production of "Wicked," and has been performing with a host of internationally known artists, from Greg Kihn to Perry Como. Jim and his wife Nancy (NIU class of ‘89) have a daughter, Emma, who was born in 1993.
Katie Wiegman (BM 2006)
Katie is remaining in the Chicago area, freelancing and performing on marimba in the duo she has with NIU steel pan graduate student Malika Green.
Dave Wilkie (BM 1991)
Mark Williams (BM 1978, MM 1981)
Currently Principal Percussionist with the Wheeling Symphony and Chair of a new department (at West Liberty State College, West Virginia) which includes music, theatre, graphic design, and broadcasting. I will be current Dean of the WV Governors School for the Arts and serve as a technology consultant for recording and computers.
Lana Wordel (BM 1988) lanapansail35@aol.com
I'm currently traveling as percussionist for the National Touring Company production of The Lion King. I'm taking a leave of absence as the Principal Percussionist with the Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra and as a member of the South Bend (IN) Symphony. I frequently sub with the Kalamazoo (MI) Symphony, the Illinois Philharmonic, the Lake Forest Symphony, and many of the small orchestras in the Chicago area. I have a viola/steel pan duo LaSte' that has performed at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic and gives numerous school presentations. We recently commissioned a work for us and orchestra. I am also a member of the Pan Go Steel Band and we just finished our first cd. I teach private lessons at 3 area high schools, Plainfield IL, Lockport IL, and Crown Point IN.
Pei-Ching Wu (MM 1994)
Soloist with Ju Percussion Group, Taipei, Taiwan; developing international career as solo percussionist.
Jim Yakas (MM 2002) jyakas@hotmail.com
Since fall 2004, Jim is a full-time Instructor of Percussion at the University of Texas at Arlington, where he teaches applied percussion lessons, instructs the marching band drum line, and teaches percussion methods courses. Prior to that, Jim held teaching positions at the University of Central Florida for the 2002-2003 school year and at the University of Minnesota for the 2003-2004 school year. Jim was the drum line caption head for the Madison Scouts drum and bugle corps during the 2002 and 2003 seasons, and currently holds that position with the Southwind Drum and Bugle Corps.
Greg York (BM 2000)
Greg is working as a financial analyst in Chicago, under the guise of saving money to ultimately open his own drum shop with mobile percussion instrument repair for Chicago-area schools.
Neville York (MM 1991)
Holds highest ranking position in government relating to music in St. Maarten, West Indies. Also performing there on steel pans.
NIU Percussion Alums!! Please contact Rich Holly to update your listing!! And, if you know something about an alum and we do not list any information after their name, please let me know what you know!