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BIOGRAPHY
Although in just his second year with Authors and Illustrators Who Visit Schools, Jeff Mondak has been discussing and performing his poems in schools for over ten years. A native of Cleveland, Jeff also has lived in Florida, Indiana, Michigan and Pennsylvania, and he now lives with his wife and two sons in Champaign, IL. Jeff is a professor at the University of Illinois.
Jeff's humorous poems and songs have appeared in numerous magazines, anthologies, songbooks, and more. As a tremendous fan of music, but one utterly lacking in musical ability, Jeff has been especially happy to write songs with several well-known musicians, including folk music icon Christine Lavin, and to hear his songs played on NPR's "All Things Considered," the Dr. Demento Show, and on lots and lots of children's music and folks music programs. In recent years, Jeff has greatly enjoyed the opportunity to incorporate music in his school programs, which he does when he is joined by musician George Martin, Tim Frazier or Sergio Wals.
George Martin has performed in rock bands for many years, and tens of thousands have seen his Beatles tribute performances. George worked with Beatlemania on Broadway, and he has been a member of several national touring Beatles tribute acts. When George travels to schools with Jeff, teachers should be prepared to join him for a rousing rendition of "Twist and Shout."
Sergio Wals is a native of Mexico, but is now settled in as a professor in America's heartland. With a huge smile and bubbling enthusiasm, Sergio quickly wins over every crowd. Since recording his children's music CD Michael Closed the Bathroom Door, Sergio has been honored to be invited for numerous live appearances on radio programs, and to share the stage with some of his favorite musical artists, such as Christine Lavin, Butch Morgan and Don White.
From Shades of Blue to the No Secret Band, with many stops in-between, Tim Frazier has been playing in pop and rock bands for over 40 years (yet Tim claims he's only 42). Tim is a tremendously talented singer and musician who performs with remarkable style and ease. A retired middle school language arts teacher, Tim enjoys getting back in the classroom to help excite students about poetry and music.
Jeff, George, Tim and Sergio have an absolute blast visiting schools. All are both educators and entertainers. They love to teach students about writing poetry and composing and performing songs, especially while getting the students laughing, dancing and singing along.