Known for its world-renowned, award-winning faculty, the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami is pleased to announce eleven new esteemed faculty hires for 2020-2021.
LEON FOSTER THOMAS – STUDIO MUSIC & JAZZ
Leon Foster Thomas is a gifted international jazz musician and steel pan virtuoso who blends the music of his Caribbean roots with the harmonic and improvisational complexities of jazz, creating a lively and eclectic meld all his own. Winner of the World Steelband Music Festival Soloist and Duet competitions of 2002 and 2004, critics laud him as “the next big thing on his instrument”, “…an enthralling improvisor…” (All About Jazz); “…masterful with impeccable musicianship” (When Steel Talks); “a benevolent wizard” (Venice Magazine). His latest release, Metamorphosis, on Ropeadope Records, exemplifies his growth and maturation as a musician. Honing his in-depth talents as a musical storyteller, Thomas has produced an album that perfectly illustrates his transformative journey. He has worked with artists such as Hugh Masekela, Vince Mendoza, Randy Brecker, Len “Boogsie” Sharpe, Dolly Parton, Igor Butman, John Beasley, Richard Smallwood, Ky-Mani Marley, and many more. He continues to perform at festivals and concerts around the world, as well as conduct lectures and master classes at various educational and cultural institutions. Thomas’s first-rate programming, phenomenal musicianship, and warm stage presence will keep you on the edge of your seat.
“I am thrilled to welcome these immensely gifted and nurturing new colleagues to the Frost School,” stated Shelton G. Berg, Dean of the Frost School of Music. “I’m also ecstatic that some of our new hires are FrostBuilt, a term we proudly give to those who have graduated from Frost, and have transitioned from student to professional. I look forward to the enrichment each and every one will bring to creating a powerful and vital learning environment necessary to foster our talented students to become leaders in all facets of the future of music.”
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