Chester Zardis

Chester Zardis “Little Bear” was a prolific bass player who’s career spanned the 20th century music business. He is known for his solid baselines that kept the band moving in time. He acquired his nickname in the 1930s during the first half of his musical career while performing on the S.S. Capital ship that sailed between New Orleans and St. Louis.

When he was not performing on ships or in venues, Zardis held down the bass playing tuba in New Orleans street bands. He also played with Louis Armstrong after their meeting at Jones Waif Home in his youth. His first recording dates were also in the ’30s with George Lewis and Bunk Johnson.

At 16, Chester began performing with Buddy Petit’s band. He continued playing with many great musicians and groups including Duke Dejean’s Dixie Rhythm Band, Punch Miller, Jack Carey, and Kid Howard in New Orleans and the Count Basie Band in New York.

Chester joined the army in WWII, and was away from music for a decade following until the 1960s. Playing with fellow musicians in Preservation Hall began the second prolific half of his music career that continued the rest of his life.

Film
Chester Zardis is featured in Liberty Street Blues, Chester Zardis: Spirit of Nola, and Three Men of Jazz

Albums
The Spirit of New Orleans- Chester Zardis 1995
T’Aint Nobody’s Business – Michael White/Chester Zardis
New Orleans Foot Warmers- Chester Zardis 1995