Dr. Valls Young Musician Scholarship Fund

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Dr. Jessica Gilliam Valls lived a full life of love, music, and joy — and she poured that joy into everyone she encountered. 

Jessica’s musical and educational accomplishments were extraordinary. She earned her Bachelor of Music from the Oberlin Conservatory, her Master of Music from the Manhattan School of Music, and her Doctor of Musical Arts from the University of Texas at Austin. 

A gifted and versatile performer, she played with symphony orchestras around the world, including the Austin and San Antonio Symphonies, and served as principal bassist for the Orquestra da Rádio e Televisão Cultura in São Paulo, Brazil. She also performed with jazz, choral, tango, and bluegrass ensembles, bringing her boundless energy and musicianship to every genre she touched. 

Jessica was a passionate and inspiring teacher. She served on the faculties of Southwestern University, Houston-Tillotson University, and the Girls’ School of Austin, and was a frequent guest artist at bass camps and workshops across the country. She singlehandedly built and directed the orchestra programs at Dripping Springs High School and Dripping Springs and Sycamore Springs Middle Schools. 

Her leadership extended beyond the classroom as a member of the Board of Directors for the International Society of Bassists, where she left a lasting impact on students and colleagues around the world. 

Jessica is survived by her beloved father, Max; sister, Eva; children, Felipe, Marina, and Simone; their father, Marcos; and her adored grandson, Sebastian. 

I was lucky to have Jessica as my best friend since our days playing together in the UT String Project in high school. Her kindness, laughter, and generosity will never be forgotten. 

To honor her legacy and continue her spirit of giving to young musicians, I am establishing the Dr. Valls Young Musician Scholarship Fund. Please consider a donation to help keep her light and love for music alive for generations to come.

-Barbara George