Jerry Coleman began playing drums around age 4 and initiated his professional career at age fifteen. After completing his B.M.E. and M.M.A. from the University of Nebraska, he toured with the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra and the Ralph Marterie Orchestra. He settled in Chicago and pursued a busy schedule working as a studio musician and jazz artist.
Besides touring with Peggy Lee and the Hi-Lo's, he has also played drums for many of America's jazz greats including Zoot Sims, Barney Kessel, Clark Terry, Herb Ellis, Carl Fontana, Billy Eckstine, and the legendary Teddy Wilson.
Jerry has appeared on many jazz festivals, recorded works for the Hubbard Street Dance Co.,and performed with the Chicago Lyric Opera Orchestra. In 1985 he organized a jazz ensemble, "Jerry Coleman's Nineburner." This group has played at various jazz festivals including two appearances at the Chicago Jazz Festival in Grant Park and at the Ravinia Jazz Festival "Jazz in June."
CREDITS
Accompanist for the Hubbard Street Dance Co
Collaborated with Gwen Verdon to record percussion music from Bob Fosse's "Dancin" for the Hubbard Street Col.
Panelist for the National Endowment for the Arts: reviewing and approving grant proposals and allocating funds.
Jerry uses Aquarian drumheads exclusively
