Christian Drollinger
Cedar Rapids ,IOWA
Summary
Dynamic musician and music director with extensive experience at Theatre Cedar Rapids, showcasing proficiency in piano and drums. Recognized for mentoring talent and enhancing performances through collaboration and innovative arrangements. Adept at managing schedules and fostering a positive environment, driving artistic growth and delivering high-quality live music experiences.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Musician
Theatre Cedar Rapids
04.2022 - Current
- Performed in various productions, showcasing vocal and instrumental skills to enhance audience experience.
- Adapted quickly to changes in performance schedules and rehearsal times, maintaining flexibility under pressure.
- Collaborated with directors to interpret musical scores and develop character portrayals effectively.
- Mentored junior musicians, sharing techniques for skill development and enhancing collaborative performance dynamics.
- Expanded musical repertoire through exploration of diverse genres, styles, and techniques.
- Elevated performance quality by consistently practicing and refining individual skills on various instruments.
- Played various instruments professionally, including guitar, piano and drums.
- Provided support during rehearsals by offering constructive feedback to peers for improved performances.
- Scheduled rehearsals with other musicians and choirs.
- Performed in over 100 shows.
- Sought out professional development opportunities such as masterclasses or workshops to continuously improve musicianship skills.
- Secured consistent gig opportunities through effective networking with venue owners and event organizers.
- Collaborated with other musicians and artists on various projects, expanding musical influences and styles.
- Used printed text and musical notations to memorize musical selections and routines.
- Provided musical background for live shows such as musical theatre, and cabarets.
Music Director
City Circle Acting Co. Of Coralville
07.2019 - Current
- Conducted auditions and selected performers for musical productions to ensure high-quality talent representation.
- Collaborated with directors and choreographers to integrate musical elements into overall performance vision.
- Led rehearsals, providing constructive feedback to improve performances and foster artistic growth among cast members.
- Developed program schedules, coordinating with production teams to maintain timelines and workflow efficiency.
- Managed music budget effectively, ensuring allocation aligns with production needs while reducing unnecessary expenses.
- Mentored junior musicians and assistants, promoting skill development and teamwork within the music department.
- Led live music performances and rehearsals, directing musicians to achieve top-notch performances.
- Planned and scheduled rehearsals and performances and arranged details such as locations, accompanists and instrumentalists.
- Developed and maintained relationships with artists, producers and other music professionals.
- Fostered a positive rehearsal environment, promoting open communication and constructive feedback among musicians.
- Transcribed musical compositions and melodic lines to adapt to particular group or create specific musical style.
- Transposed pieces from one instrument to another and one key to another to accommodate client and musician preferences.
Crew Member
Trader Joe's
08.2017 - Current
- Assisted customers with product selection and inquiries.
- Maintained store cleanliness and organization to enhance shopping experience.
- Operated cash register efficiently, processing transactions accurately.
- Collaborated with team members to restock shelves and manage inventory levels.
- Ensured compliance with food safety standards during product handling.
- Trained new crew members on operational procedures and best practices.
- Trained new team members on procedures, customer service, and sales techniques.
- Collaborated with fellow crew members for seamless shift transitions, ensuring smooth operations throughout the day.
Musician
City Circle Acting Co. Of Coralville
05.2015 - Current
- Assisted in setting up and maintaining musical instruments and equipment.
- Collaborated with musicians to ensure seamless performances during live events.
- Supported conductor by following cues and maintaining rhythm during rehearsals.
- Engaged with fellow musicians, fostering a positive and collaborative environment.
- Learned music scores and arrangements efficiently to support ensemble cohesiveness.
- Served as an effective substitute musician when needed, seamlessly integrating into different ensembles as required.
- Enhanced musical performances by providing high-quality accompaniment for various productions.
- Delivered accurate and emotive performances by carefully interpreting sheet music and cues from the conductor.
- Mentored less experienced musicians, sharing knowledge on techniques and best practices to support their growth as performers.
- Developed strong sight-reading skills, allowing for efficient rehearsal processes and seamless performances.
- Maintained a diverse repertoire by studying and mastering various musical styles and genres.
Piano Accompanist
St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church
08.2012 - 08.2023
- Accompanied choir rehearsals, enhancing vocal performances through skilled piano support.
- Collaborated with musical directors to refine arrangements for worship services and special events.
- Prepared sheet music and coordinated practice schedules for choir members to ensure readiness.
Music Director
Iowa City Community Theatre
07.2017 - 12.2017
Education
No Degree - Liberal Arts And Sciences
Kirkwood Community College
Cedar Rapids, IAHigh School Diploma -
Tipton High School
Tipton, IASkills
- Piano, drums, and percussion proficiency
- Music theory
- Strong attention to detail
- Teaching experience
- Song composition
- Orchestra background
- Versatile
- Schedule management
- Music composition
- Live performances
- Extensive performance background
- Musical arrangements
- Original songwriter
- Music writing
- Private lessons
- Ensemble playing
- Music selection
- Stage presence
- Music history
- Live sessions
- Arranging music
- Composition
- Sight reading
- Ear training
- Talented accompanist
- Improvising
- Talented sight-reader
- Orchestra experience
Timeline
Musician
Theatre Cedar Rapids
04.2022 - Current
Music Director
City Circle Acting Co. Of Coralville
07.2019 - Current
Crew Member
Trader Joe's
08.2017 - Current
Music Director
Iowa City Community Theatre
07.2017 - 12.2017
Musician
City Circle Acting Co. Of Coralville
05.2015 - Current
Piano Accompanist
St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church
08.2012 - 08.2023
No Degree - Liberal Arts And Sciences
Kirkwood Community College
High School Diploma -
Tipton High School