Edward Mondello
5555 So. EverettChicago, IL 60637
773-752-4485
Teaching
Edward Mondello teaches piano, organ, music theory and voice in his Hyde Park studio. He is comfortable with students of all ages and levels, from beginners to accomplished musicians. Mr. Mondello is considered a remarkably patient teacher, with a unique ability to adjust his teaching approach so as to inspire and bring out the best in each of his students who bring a broad spectrum of experiences, playing abilities and levels of commitment.
Performance
Mr. Mondello's musical career includes a history of solo and ensemble performances. As the University Organist at the University of Chicago, his recitals commanded the largest audiences for organists in the United States. Paul Hume, music critic for the Washington Post, wrote after hearing him in recital " Mondello played with power and beauty". He toured the U.S. and Canada and played private organ recitals for Sir George Solti and Charles, Prince of Wales. Mr. Mondello also played organ continuo for many years with the Chicago Symphony under the batons of Jean Martinon, Antonio Janegro, Morton Gould and Margaret Hillis, and has performed with a variety of outstanding musicians such as trumpeter Adolph Herseth and oboist Ray Still.
Student achievements
Prior to setting up his private studio, Mr. Mondello taught piano for twenty years to graduate students in The University of Chicago's Department of Music. In recent years, his pupils have distinguished themselves as musicians in their own rights. Mr. Thomas Weisflog, one of America's great virtuoso organists studied with Mr. Mondello for many years and recently succeeded him as the University of Chicago Organist. Conley Johnson, Mr. Mondello's most outstanding young piano pupil, has played several solo recitals and appeared as piano soloist with local orchestras including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in which he performed as soloist for an overflow audience.
Education
Mr. Mondello has a B. M. from Kansas State College with a major in piano and a M. M. from the University of Chicago with a major in musicology.