Former UNL professor pursues dream of being a full-time musician

Jerry Renaud spends his retirement days performing on stage.

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – From vineyards to venues, bars and retirement homes, Jerry Renaud does it all.

“I play in a number of groups,” Renaud said. “I do a solo thing. I have a duo partner and we play a lot, and then I have a jazz band, classic rock, country rock band.”

It was just over a year ago, when the musician decided to trade the classroom for the center stage.

“I had always planned that after retirement I was going to ease into retirement by becoming an almost full-time musician so that’s what I’ve been attempting to do.”

Renaud spent 30 years as a professor at the University of Nebraska Lincoln. He taught classes at the College of Journalism and Mass Communications.

On Sunday, he opened for James Arthur Vineyard’s Holiday Music Series.

“I’ve known Jerry for years,” owner Jim Ballard said. “He performed out here. I can’t even remember the time, for almost a decade or so. He also has a couple bands. Jerry’s just easy to work with and a very talented musician.

Renaud is no stranger to the stage. Before teaching, he was a member of a band and spent years traveling the country performing music. After years with the band, he decided he didn’t want to travel. He wanted to spend more time at home. Now, he gets the opportunity to do what he loves, locally.

“It’s just fun to go out and play. I love playing with other people. I think that’s why I have so many different groups to play with, because it’s always fun and interesting. Everyone bring something different and challenging to it.”

James Arthur Vineyard’s will have more artists lined up to play in the series. For more information you can visit the vineyard’s website.