Connell Thompson is a versatile saxophonist and clarinetist with a powerful tone, melodic improvisational skills, and strong stage presence. Born in California and raised in New Hampshire, he began playing clarinet at age 11. Having a strong affinity for jazz music, Thompson picked up the tenor saxophone two years later so that he could play jazz music. Throughout his time at Bishop Guertin High School, he was active in many classical and jazz ensembles, including the Greater Youth Manchester Wind Ensemble, Freese Brothers Big Band, playing for the Derryfield Summer Repertory Theater, and numerous self led groups. During his senior year in High School he placed highest score tenor saxophone in both New Hampshire Jazz All-State and New Hampshire Classical All-State Festivals.
Thompson attended New York University, earning his B.M. in Jazz Studies in May 2010, and has studied with top level saxophonists Lenny Pickett and Ron Blake of the Saturday Night Live Band, Ralph Lalama of the Village Vanguard Orchestra, Dave Pietro, and Shannon LeClaire of the Berklee College of Music. He has performed in New York City at Cachaca Jazz, Samba Club and The Blue Note Jazz Club, Iridium Jazz Club, and other venues in New York City.
Thompson currently performs with various groups in New York including The Relatives, The Joni Paladin Quartet, and Spencer Zahn's Bartok Orchestra.
