The Story So Far

Aaron Zimmerman is a Music Director, Pianist, and Writer based in Chicago. He grew up learning any instrument he could get his hands on — voice, piano, violin, trumpet, and guitar — before finding his calling in composition and music direction.

He holds a Bachelor's degree in Music Composition from Bowling Green State University and a Master's in Music Composition from the UMKC Conservatory of Music and Dance, where he studied with composers Jim Mobberly and Chen Yi. His classical piano training included study under accomplished concert pianists, and he has performed with symphonic and chamber ensembles.

In 2018, Aaron began working in pit orchestras, and it wasn't long before he stepped into the music director's chair. Since then, he has music directed over 20 theatrical productions, working across community theatre, professional stages, and educational programs.

During the pandemic, he adapted by producing virtual theatrical productions and organizing digital choir performances — finding new ways to keep making music when stages went dark.

Philosophy

"It's all about the stories." For Aaron, music direction is the art of bridging composer intent, directorial vision, and character development. The best theatrical experiences happen when music doesn't just accompany the story — it becomes the story.