Thomas Parchman, Clarinet

Where did you grow up? Memphis, TN
Where do you live now? Portland, ME

[yes, I have a long drive]
Educational Background: Doctorate from USC, Master's from Northwestern, Bachelor of Music Performance, Music Education] from Southern Methodist

How did you get started in music?

 5th grade band in elementary school.

When did you join the Rhode Island Philharmonic?

1993.

What are your non-RIPO musical activities?

 Portland Symphony Orchestra, PORTopera, Green Mountain Opera, Opera North, Medomak Conductor’s Retreat, and Portland Ballet.

What is the question you’re asked most often when you tell people you play with the RIPO?

 What instrument do you play?

What is your favorite RIPO memory to date?

Performing Brahms Sym #1.

Do you teach? Yes If so, where?

 University of Southern Maine.

If you couldn’t be a musician, what would be your dream job?

 If I weren’t a musician… I wouldn’t be me…

What are your non-musical hobbies?

Kayaking and home repair.

Who or what has been your greatest influence, musical or otherwise?

I have had the great fortune to have a variety of mentors. Too many to list here. But to each I owe a debt which I attempt to repay by doing the same thing for my students.

What is your favorite music? What are you currently listening to?

Opera…ok…Italian opera.

What/where do you like to eat in the Providence area?

 I would love to enjoy the restaurants in Providence, but I am usually eating a sandwich in the car on my way to rehearsal.

Visit my website to learn more

www.schicchi.com