Dripping Springs, Texas, September 15, 2025
News Summary
Dr. Jessica Gilliam-Valls, a respected orchestra director and accomplished double bassist, has sadly passed away at her residence. Known for her talent and dedication to music education, she significantly impacted the Dripping Springs community. Her legacy includes building orchestra programs in several schools and founding the Austin Bass Workshop. As the music world mourns her loss, a visitation and funeral service are scheduled to honor her contributions to the arts and her influence on young musicians.
Dripping Springs, Texas – Dr. Jessica Gilliam-Valls, the beloved orchestra director at Dripping Springs Independent School District, was identified as having passed away at her residence on September 9, 2025, at the age of 55. Her absence from teaching duties raised concerns among colleagues and students, ultimately leading to the discovery of her body.
Known for her exceptional talent as a double bassist, Gilliam-Valls held advanced music degrees, including a Doctorate in Musical Arts from the University of Texas at Austin, a Master’s in Music in Double Bass Performance from the Manhattan School of Music, and a degree from the Oberlin Conservatory. Her musical achievements included performances with prestigious organizations such as the Austin and San Antonio symphonies, as well as serving as the principal bassist for the Orquestra da Rádio e Televisão Cultura in São Paulo, Brazil.
In addition to her performance career, Gilliam-Valls significantly impacted music education in the Dripping Springs area. She was instrumental in building and directing the orchestra programs at Dripping Springs High School, Dripping Springs Middle School, and Sycamore Springs Middle School. Her dedication extended to founding the Austin Bass Workshop, where she nurtured young double bass musicians during summer sessions.
As an esteemed educator, Gilliam-Valls shared her expertise on various academic faculties, teaching at institutions including Southwestern University, Huston-Tillotson University, and The Girls’ School of Austin. She was also an active member of the International Society of Bassists (ISB), where she contributed to the board of directors and frequently presented at conventions, leaving an indelible mark on the global bass community.
The ISB publicly honored her memory, acknowledging her as a “ray of sunshine” and praising her ability to inspire both her students and fellow musicians. She is survived by her father, three children—Felipe, Marina, and Simone Gilliam Valls—and her grandson, Sebastian.
In remembrance of Gilliam-Valls, a visitation will be held on September 17, 2025, at Cook-Walden Funeral Home in Austin, Texas, followed by a funeral service. Her legacy as a distinguished musician and educator will continue to resonate within her community and beyond as friends, family, former students, and colleagues pay tribute to her life and contributions to the arts.
Background and Musical Contributions
Dr. Jessica Gilliam-Valls had an extensive background in music, blending classical and contemporary genres. Her collaborations spanned various styles, including chamber music, jazz, tango, and bluegrass, showcasing her versatility as a musician. Beyond her performance work, she participated in studio recordings and film soundtracks, contributing to notable festival performances that enriched the cultural fabric of her community.
Her efforts in teaching have inspired many young musicians and have fostered a community passionate about music education. The orchestra programs she established continue to impact students, enabling them to develop their talents under her guidance. Her educational philosophy centered on nurturing creativity and passion for music, a legacy that will endure even after her passing.
Community Impact
Gilliam-Valls’ unexpected demise has left a void in the Dripping Springs community and the broader music world. As colleagues and students reflect on her life, they acknowledge her as a guiding force, whose enthusiasm for teaching and performing enriched the lives of those in her sphere. The outpouring of affection and respect within her community highlights the profound influence she wielded as both a musician and a mentor.
FAQ Section
What was Dr. Jessica Gilliam-Valls known for?
Dr. Jessica Gilliam-Valls was known for her role as an orchestra director at Dripping Springs ISD and as an accomplished double bassist.
What education did she have?
She held degrees from the Oberlin Conservatory, Manhattan School of Music, and earned a Doctorate from the University of Texas at Austin.
What contributions did she make to music education?
She built and directed orchestra programs in multiple schools and founded the Austin Bass Workshop for young musicians.
What was her role in the International Society of Bassists?
Gilliam-Valls served on the board of directors and was a frequent presenter at ISB conventions.
When and where will her visitation and funeral service take place?
Her visitation is scheduled for September 17, 2025, at Cook-Walden Funeral Home in Austin, Texas, followed by a funeral service.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Dr. Jessica Gilliam-Valls |
| Age | 55 |
| Occupation | Orchestra Director, Music Educator, Double Bassist |
| Education | D.M.A, M.M., Bachelor’s Degree |
| Community Contributions | Multiple orchestra programs, Austin Bass Workshop |
| Major Performances | Austin and San Antonio symphonies, Chamber music, Film soundtracks |
| Survived By | Father, Three Children, Grandson |
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Additional Resources
- The Strad: Dr. Jessica Gilliam-Valls Has Died
- Wikipedia: Orchestra
- Dignity Memorial: Jessica Gilliam-Valls
- Google Search: Jessica Gilliam-Valls
- Music Teachers National Association: Resources
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jazz
- Google News: Jessica Gilliam-Valls
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