Mr. Vacation Music

"[John] is a fantastic musician, composer, and friend. I have rarely seen someone get as giddy about the minutiae of music as he does." 

-Sean Michael, Artistic Director of The Q Collective

"[John] is an extremely nice person, good to work with, has helped greatly with setup and tear down of praise band and has contributed some good arrangements.  Obviously he is a skilled and well-liked teacher, having won teacher of the year award in St. Louis several years back.  Glad to know him!" 

-Carolbeth True, award-winning jazz pianist and educator

"I had such a great time working with John....He helped complete our pit with outstanding French horn and keyboard playing. John is so much fun to have in the pit and a very dedicated musician."  

-Jennifer Buchheit, Music Director, Stray Dog Theatre 

"John Gerdes is a dedicated, generous teacher who is always sensitive to the needs of his students. He is also an incredibly versatile musician who excels as a composer, arranger, and performer!"  
-Peter Henderson, Artist-in-Residence at Maryville University; Keyboard soloist with St. Louis Symphony Orchestra

"I came to John seeking help in creating a backing track for a song I have always wanted to sing for years, but could never find the music. He was very quick to respond to my inquiries and was not only up for the task of creating exactly what I wanted, but also within my deadline. John went above and beyond to blend a custom track that was both created and edited in a very professional manner.  He kept me up to date on every step of the process, so I was never left wondering if there was an issue. John is excellent to work with and a true pro.  I highly recommend his musical services. You will not be disappointed." 

-Jennelle Gilreath Owens, Creator/director/producer for Dixie D’s USO Jubilee

"When people are talented, kind, generous and patient it is easy to be with them, even when you are not. That’s John....Then there is the teaching, composing, arranging and the horn playing….does John sleep? It is a joy to be in his circle and it is guaranteed that something creative, probably more than one thing, is happening at any given time."   

 -Cynthia Briggs O’Brien, music therapy program coordinator, Maryville University (retired)
 

"John isn't just about getting the job done. He sees it as so much more and has a heart of gold. He invests into others and allows them to bring their own creativity to his project. He believes in teamwork and the notion that working in chorus is far more successful and effective than working alone. I have enjoyed working with John and cannot wait to work with him again!" 

-David True, Two Times True