Thomas Tait

Tom Tait is an active figure in the Chicago area, making his mark as both a brass teacher and a trumpet performer. He boasts an impressive educational background with degrees in Music Education from State University College at Potsdam, New York. Furthermore, he holds a Master's in Trumpet Performance from the University of Louisville and has completed coursework for the Doctor of Musical Arts at the University of Illinois in Urbana.

Mr. Tait's career has been diverse, with professional performances alongside various artists and ensembles. His experiences include collaborations with the likes of the Louisville Symphony Orchestra, Kentucky Opera, Champaign-Urbana Symphony, Sinfonia da Camera, Glen Ellyn Children's Choir, national touring companies of A Chorus Line and The Secret Garden, as well as comedians Bob Hope and Bob Newhart. He's also shared the stage with renowned jazz musicians such as Nick Brignola, Anthony Braxton, Mel Torme, Randy Brecker, John Abercrombie, and Louis Bellson.

As an educator, Tom Tait plays a significant role in the development of young musicians. He currently maintains a private lesson studio with approximately 65 students and serves as an instructor at Downers Grove North High School, Oswego East High School, and in the Indian Prairie School District 204. At the latter, he directs the Waubonsie Valley High School Jazz Ensemble. His students consistently excel and achieve the highest scores and honors in All State, ILMEA, and their respective schools.

In addition to his teaching and performing career, Tom Tait is an author of a trumpet method book and an expert in computer music technology. His dedication to music extends to his latest recording, where he serves as the principal trumpet with the Concord Brass Ensemble. The recording, titled "Gaudeamus! Music for Brass with Organ and Timpani," is available on the GIA Records label under #CD-503.