Spring Break
Grammy-winner teaches jazz
Elizabeth Piwowarski
Issue date: 10/15/07 Section: features
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Wertico, a Chicago native, was recently appointed the new position early this summer.
As an instructor in the jazz program since 2002, Wertico has taught many talented students. He also changed the combo program, which asks students to play together in small groups.
"Each combo will now represent a specific period of jazz. Over the students' 4 years or 8 semesters, they will study the different types of jazz and learn what each style demands, in order to play it authentically," Wertico said.
"We're also changing the jury system to suit each individual instrument more effectively, amongst other things," Wertico said. "Basically, I'm trying to make the jazz program something I, myself, would like to attend if I were a student in today's world."
Wertico, not only an instructor of jazz music but also a well-known drummer, has never known how he became so fascinated with music in the first place-particularly with drums and jazz.
"I really have no idea how I got into music. I guess I've just always loved music. Even though I was also into things like sports, chemistry and girls," Wertico said.
"However, the drums really spoke to me. When I was a kid, I was always banging on things. Even when I was doing my homework I would always mess around playing rhythms with my pencils along with radio."
According to Wertico, "one of the greatest things about jazz is the freedom to play whatever you want, as long as it's musical. Drummers get to express themselves in many ways and not be confined to just playing grooves."
Throughout his career life, Wertico has recorded and played with numerous bands allowing him travel to all 50 states and over 50 countries.
"When you perform as an active professional musician, you're then able to teach the students from your own experiences. The two work together," Wertico said.
As a professional musician, Wertico knows the hard work and professionalism needed for the music industry, which is why he has certain expectations from his students.
"The music business is so strange. You never know where it's going," Wertico said.
"I want each student to learn who they are as a player and be able to find themselves on their instruments. I want students who are hungry to learn, who are hard workers. I don't want any ego problems or self-defeating hang ups," Wertico said.
As far as the Grammys go, Wertico considers them as an "honor and recognition." His real accomplishment, though, is "creating good and honest music."
"When I perform, I just play. One of the greatest attractions of performing is that you can go into a whole other world, especially when you're 'really on,' the band is killin', and the audience is right there with you. Time seems to stand still," Wertico said.
"When everything is gelling-the physical, the emotional, the spiritual, etc…-all the pieces come together like in a puzzle. It's euphoric!"
Wertico will perform with the Chicago Percussion All-Stars on Feb. 16 at Northwestern University.
For more information, visit www.paulwertico.com.
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