My life with music
Teacher, performer, recording engineer, and the son of a polka bandleader. Chris Pawola has spent a lifetime creating music and creating musicians.
Raised on polka, guitar and piano
Chris was surrounded by music from an early age by his father, Edwin “Whitey” Pawola, co-founder of the renowned polka band “Whitey Pawola and the Naturals,” a Chicagoland favorite.
Chris began playing guitar and piano at the age of six. By 15 he was teaching students and developing his individualized approach to instruction. He didn’t have a driver’s license yet, and remembers his parents driving him to the music store to work.
Teaching thousands of students
In the early years, Chris designed and developed a comprehensive K-8 music curriculum. For 17 years he trained those students in general music skills and gave group lessons in keyboard and guitar. Over 40 years, he has taught thousands of students of all ages, abilities and learning styles in guitar, piano, bass, ukulele, percussion and college-level theory.
Bringing joy to the greatest generation
Chris has a genuine love for “the greatest generation” and brings joy, laughter, and happiness with each event. For over 15 years, he has served the assisted living and memory care communities creating meaningful and engaging performances and sing-alongs. With every song that is sung, hymn that is prayed, and every note played, Chris has the unique ability to unlock the memories of all. Chris’ energy is infectious. He is kind and focused. He makes each person he interacts with feel special.
He credits Deb Greiner, his first memory care director, mentor and friend, for his success working with residents with Alzheimer’s and other related dementias.
In the studio
Chris has collaborated with diverse groups on recording, engineering and production for over 150 CD and other media productions. Many of these projects include his own accompaniment on guitar, piano and percussion.
“He is genuine, creative, dedicated, faithful, a master performer, professional, and memorable. Chris is one of a kind. If you asked him, he would say that his passion is the creation of music and the creation of musicians. If you asked anyone who has experienced his spirit, they would add that his passion is woven in love.”