Music Producer, Drummer, Educator and Technologist
As owner of Big Pear Productions, Jesse Nolan specializes in commercial music, recording, audio & video production, as well as live events.
Backing up Legends
Jesse has performed and toured the world with artists, bands, and shows including James Moody, Allen Vizzutti, Bob Shepard, Lorraine Feather, David Baker, the Rob Parton JazzTECH Big Band, the Buselli-Wallarab Jazz Orchestra, the 50th Anniversary European Tour of West Side Story (2 Olivier Nominations), and a 2009 North American Tour of Jesus Christ Superstar (w/ Ted Neeley).
Leading the Band
In over 10 years as a band, orchestra and vocal music teacher, he has taught at schools throughout the Midwest. Jesse is also a sub-committee chair of the Jazz Education Network Ed Committee and a proud member of the Vic Firth Education team, with whom he holds an educational endorsement.
Painting with Sound
A four year tenure as a Resident Music Director for multiple Blue Man Group productions saw Jesse performing with the group on two North American tours and two international tours, as well as drumming as a member of the Chicago and Orlando casts.
Teaching and playing is about having a level of openness.
For me, this is all about trying not to teach in a vacuum and following that technique that Second City and SNL uses, 'the yes... and,' which accepts your idea and adds to it. This allows you to both be creative and to learn simultaneously.
“He brings vision, enthusiasm, talent, passion and dedication to all that he undertakes.”
“His presence and ability to collaborate with colleagues and students through his positive and optimistic attitude is infectious and greatly enhances every project he is involved with.”
“Jesse Nolan brings welcome vigor and variety to his drum work.”
Complete Academic Leadership
Building interactive social communities for tomorrow.
I've found that introducing the social thing in instrumental music classes has a big impact on three things–– student engagement, teacher effectiveness and student achievement.
