Don Thompson has been one of the leading lights of the Canadian jazz scene for well over 35 years. A tireless performer and visionary artist on piano, bass, vibraphone, and drums, Don is also a consummate composer and arranger, considered one of Canada's most gifted jazz writers. Don's unique ability and distinct voice has landed him in groups with Paul Desmond, Lenny Breau, Clark Terry, Art Farmer, Milt Jackson, Kenny Wheeler, George Shearing, Sonny Greenwich and John Handy, just to name a few. A native of Powell River, B.C., Don moved to Vancouver in his late teens where he met and played with internationally renowned saxophonist John Handy, who invited him to join his group in San Francisco. Mr. Thompson's musical ability has carried him to stages throughout Europe, Japan, Brazil, the United States and Canada. For the past 35 years, Don has called Toronto his home. He performed as a regular in the Boss Brass, in the bands of Moe Koffman, Sonny Greenwich and, in the 1980's, as the ?other half' of the George Shearing duo, where he beautifully complemented the pianist's work, on both bass and piano. Don has forged himself a solid place in Canadian jazz history, but he has also become a loved and respected fixture in Toronto. Don is now recognized as an inspired jazz educator; adored by students, he currently teaches at Humber College, where his musical wisdom and experience is greatly appreciated by musicians and listeners alike.
