Tom Morgan

TOM MORGAN

Topeka Drum & Percussion Instructor

Instrument(s) and Levels Taught

Tom teaches snare drum, drumset, and percussion to students of all ages and abilities, from beginners to advanced.

Education History

Tom has a bachelor's degree in Music Education and a master's degree in Music Theory and Composition from the University of Northern Colorado. Tom also holds a Doctorate in Percussion Performance from the University of Oklahoma.

Teaching History

Tom's teaching experience is vast and widely varied. He began teaching private lessons while still in high school, he was a teaching assistant during his master's and doctoral programs, he has taught at the elementary school, middle school, high school, and university levels in both the U.S. and Canada, and he regularly appears as a guest clinician and performer and jazz and percussion camps throughout the region. Tom is currently a Professor of Music at Washburn University where he has been on the faculty for more than 30 years.

Performance History and Influences

Tom has performed as a drummer and percussionist with numerous groups for the past 40+ years, including the Trilogy Big Band (recorded two CDs), Boulevard Big Band, Steve Miller Big Band, Kansas City Symphony, Topeka Symphony, and the Washburn Faculty Jazz Group. Before moving to the Topeka area, Tom also performed for many years in Los Angeles, Denver, Boise, and Oklahoma City.
Tom currently plays drumset with the I.H.S. World Orchestra, a 17-piece jazz big band made up of musicians from all over the world. The band has toured in Israel, Viet Nam, China, Taiwan, and Thailand. This is a missionary organization that presents the Gospel in every performance.

Other Thoughts, Hobbies, Etc.

"I became a Christian in college at about the age of 21. I am very active in my church as an elder and teacher. I believe that the Gospel is the only hope for mankind and the Christian Worldview informs how I view my students, as creations of God who are never-ending beings with an eternal destiny in God’s great universe. Humans have infinite value and dignity and should be treated as such."
"I love teaching and watching students improve their skills. I like working with all levels from beginners to advanced students. Many of my students have gone on to become professional players and teachers."
"My hobbies include fishing and camping. My wife and I have an RV and we travel a lot in the summer. I am an avid reader and have an extensive library. I especially love reading history and classic novels."

Contact Information