About Us
All musicians contracted by Music Connections are professionals and many are also music educators. We have many connections not listed here and can find you just about any musical ensemble you could want for your business or family event, wedding, reunion or christmas party.
Monica Hrudik
Monica received both her undergraduate and graduate music degrees from Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. She has performed with the Sault Symphony Orchestra, the Belmont University Orchestra,
the Trevecca Symphony Orchestra, and currently with the Manitowoc Symphony. She has over ten years experience playing professionally in various classical and jazz ensembles, as well as doing demo work
in the studio. She brings a rich and musically diverse
background to Music Connections. Monica currently teaches orchestra classes in the Manitowoc Public School District.
Jim Van Lanen Jr
James is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh, where he received his
BS degree in business management and a minor in music. He has performed with the
Wisconsin State High School Honors Orchestra, the Oshkosh College Symphony,
the Green Bay Symphony, and presently with the Manitowoc Symphony. Jim has
played violin in orchestras, small ensembles, pit orchestras, and paid jobs since the late
1970s. He played as a lounge musician through college and has booked
entertainment at the Lighthouse Inn in Two Rivers since 1979. His management
career as General Manager at the Lighthouse Inn and long musical
background over a unique perspective to booking musical entertainment. He sees
both sides of the fence so to speak, understanding what is best for both
musician and event coordinator.
Kim Gauer
Kim graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire with degrees in education and music. She studied classical piano under Penelope Cecchini. While at UWEC she pursued her love of jazz and played piano in UWEC’s top jazz ensemble. Kim enjoyed playing with Thad Jones, Ed Shaughnessy, and Buddy Rich during her school years. Her favorite musical memory is from when her idol, Count Basie needed help getting to the piano. After assisting the Count, he leaned over and whispered, “Thank you darlin',” and gave her a peck on the cheek.
Over the last 25 years, she has played in numerous big bands, weddings, musical theater orchestras, and has taught piano lessons in her studio. She currently plays tenor saxophone in the Lakeshore Wind Ensemble and piano in the Lakeshore Big Band.