Jerry Zitko

Jerry Zitko, violinist, retired in 2017 from teaching Elementary and Jr. High Orchestra in the Naperville Community Unit School District 203 after 34 years. He has served as an adjudicator and clinician for many competitions and festivals, and was the 2016 guest conductor for the ILMEA Junior High School Orchestra Festival. As a violinist, he has performed with many Chicago area orchestras and ensembles including the West Suburban and Southwest Symphonies, and Chicagoland Educators Orchestra. He is currently a member of the Salt Creek Chamber Orchestra and serves on their Board. Jerry is also a member of The American String Teachers Association and ILMEA. He holds a BM degree in Music Education from DePaul University and a MA in Educational Leadership/Administration from North Central College. Jerry largely attributes his piano skills to former WSMC members, Lydia Smutny Sterba and Gail Quillman. Jerry resides in Downers Grove and outside of music enjoys looking after his koi pond and cooking.