Dr. Derrick Thompson

Derrick L. Thompson, a distinguished musician and educator from Madison Heights, Virginia, has left an indelible mark on the music scene. His passion for music is evident in his extensive academic and professional achievements. Dr. Thompson's journey in music is adorned with an impressive array of degrees, including a Bachelor of Arts in music with a specialization in vocal music education from Lynchburg College (2008), a Master of Arts in music from Morgan State University (2010), a Master of Music in choral conducting from Messiah University (2021), a Master of Education in Music and Music Education (2018), and a Doctor of Education in the College Teaching of Music and Music Education from Teachers College, Columbia University (2019).

Dr. Thompson's illustrious career as a professional vocalist began with his stunning debut in 2007 as the Duke in Gounod's Roméo et Juliette with the Opera on the James in Lynchburg, Virginia. His rich baritone voice has since filled concert halls with its magnificent timbre, making audiences feel as though "the angels themselves [stop] to listen," as noted in The Southside Messenger. His repertoire is diverse, with standout performances as a bass soloist in beloved works like Faure's Requiem, Rutter's Mass of the Children, and Handel's Messiah. Dr. Thompson's versatility shines in his portrayals of characters such as Ben in Menotti's The Telephone, Prince Torado in Dunbar's Dream Lovers, and King Balthazar in Amahl and the Night Visitors. His Maryland debut was a significant milestone, performing as the baritone soloist in the world premiere of the oratorio, The Chartered Course, which celebrated the 300th Anniversary of the City of Annapolis.

One of Dr. Thompson's notable international ventures was his time in China during the 2010-2011 season. As the artistic director and conductor of the Tianjin Concert Hall's Mulan Children's Choir, he made a lasting impact in the Tianjin community. He also captivated audiences as a soloist with the International Festival Chorus and Peking Sinfonietta in performances of Handel's Messiah and Bach's Passio secundum Johannem (St. John Passion), BWV 245. His dedication to teaching while in China was evident as two of his private voice students achieved top positions in the Hong Kong Young Artist Competition.

Dr. Thompson's influence extends beyond his performing career. He is a revered conductor and clinician, sought after for numerous district, county, and all-state choral performances. with conducting engagements such as the Cumberland County Choral Festival in Pennsylvania, the Louisa All-County Elementary Chorus, the Campbell All-County Elementary Chorus, and the Richmond All-City Middle School Chorus in Virginia. His guest conducting opportunities have also including work with ensembles such as the Reading Pops Orchestra and Reading Choral Society. The Jazz History Online Journal shares that "The chorus was expertly rehearsed by Derrick Thompson, and they made the most out of Ellington's witty lyrics and genre-stretching music" as a testament to his skill and dedication.

Dr. Thompson's research passion aligns with his commitment to advancing choral and vocal music. His interests focuson the development of young singing voices, effective communication in choral rehearsals, and innovative teaching methodologies for choral and applied voice settings. His insightful research has been published in esteemed journals such as ChorTeach: Practical Teaching Ideas for Today's Music Educator, VMEANotes: The Official Journal of the Virginia Music Educators Association, and PMEA News: The Official Publication of the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association. Dr. Thompson can also be found on podcast and presenting at local, state, and regional conferences and workshops on his written works along with topics related to access and representation in choral music education, excellence in teaching, and cultural appropriation and appreciation in the field.

With over eight years of teaching experience in the Virginia school system, Dr. Thompson has nurtured countless young musicians, teaching elementary general music and conducting middle and high school choirs. His academic contributions extend to adjunct positions at Lynchburg College, Messiah University, and Teachers College, Columbia University. As the former Music Program Director and Director of Choral Activities at Delaware State University, Director of Choral Activities at Albright College, and now as the Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Choral Studies at Kutztown University in Kutztown, Pennsylvania, Dr. Thompson continues to inspire the next generation of musicians. Additionally, he serves as the Student Activities Chair with the American Choral Directors Association of Pennsylvania and Interim Music Director at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

www.derricklthompson.com