John Gerdes is a composer, arranger, music educator, and performer. He holds a Master of Music from Southern Illinois University. He is a past Music Educator of the Year for St. Louis Public Schools and a recipient of the Office Max "A Day Made Better" Teacher of the Year award. His original compositions and arrangements have been performed by SIU, University of Missouri - St. Louis, Webster Groves Christian Church, Oklahoma City University, University of Cincinnati College Music Conservatory, North Park University - Chicago, and New Line Theatre - St. Louis.

John would like to thank his wife Lea without whom this book would not be possible.