Darryl C. Thompson began playing trumpet at eight (8) years
of age. He was recognized as an accomplished musician while attending Chicago
Vocational High School where he was featured in “Who’s Who Among Music Students
in American High Schools”. He studied for one year at the American Conservatory
of Music and later attended Mount Senario College in Wisconsin where he earned
a Bachelor of Science degree in music education with an emphasis on
instrumental music.
Darryl began teaching music in 1977 and has taught in both
Chicago and suburban public school systems, several college assignments and
also gives private music instruction. His students have received 1st
place ratings in numerous “State” music competitions, and also works with an
award winning children’s gospel choir. Darryl believes in establishing a basic
understanding of “music fundamentals’, developing a systematic approach to
practice, making it both fun and beneficial. His methods and theories have
helped create many future outstanding instrumentalists.
In 1980, Darryl became lead trumpet player and section
leader for the “Tyrone Davis Revue” a position he held until Mr. Davis’ death
in 2005. Currently employed by Otis Clay the amazing world of music has
afforded Darryl the opportunity to travel extensively; he is a well-known
international talent. Having played in such places as Africa, Japan, France
Poland and Italy, he has participated in numerous recording sessions,
television, video productions and radio programs.
Darryl is a proud member of the American federation of
Musicians, Phi Mu Alpha Fraternity, The International Trumpet Guild, Music
Educators National Conference and is a “Yamaha Performing Artist”.
