The Chicago jazz bassist was 81
On 9 May, US jazz double bassist Nick Schneider died at the age of 81, following a long career as a performer, recording artist, educator, director and producer.
Schneider was born on 17 January 1943 and began learning music at young age, playing the piano, saxophone, tuba, accordion, and drums, as well as both electric and acoustic bass. He began performing professionally aged 14 and went on to study with former Chicago Symphony Orchestra bassist Rudy Fassbender at the Chicago Conservatory Music.
Until the age of 23, Schneider served as part of the U.S. Army in Vietnam and performed regularly with Hawaiian singer Don Ho in Oahu, Hawaii. Upon his return, Schneider went on to carve a notable career in the Chicago jazz scene, performing with acclaimed musicians including Buddy Rich, Frankie Valli, Liza Minelli, Eddie Higgins, and The Tonight Show Band, among many others. He released his album Pullin Strings in 2008.
As an educator, Schneider served on the faculty of institutions including the University of Wisconsin Indianhead Arts Center, Oakton College, Birch Creek Music Academy, and Shell Lake Arts Center. As part of the Bruce Oscar Trio, he offered mentorship to musicians of all ages through the group’s educational jam sessions.
‘Our goal is to chase the future a little bit. It’s America’s art form,’ said Schneider in an interview with the Northwest Herald. ‘It’s the only popular music we teach in high school curriculum. I’m a teacher. I teach so young people can perform and carry jazz with them.’
Schneider’s wife Jeanne Marie died in December 2023, after devoted partnership of 55 years. They are survived by their children Eric and Michele.
Read: Bluegrass fiddler Bobby Hicks dies at age 91
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