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Michigan State University's College of Music is poised to welcome a distinguished addition to its faculty roster beginning August 16, 2024. Kenneth Thompkins, the principal trombone of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO), will assume the role of associate professor of trombone, continuing the College's pursuit of musical excellence and mentorship.

A member of the DSO for an impressive 27 years, Thompkins brings to MSU students and community a distinguished career marked by notable performances and collaborations. His musical journey, which began with appointments in the Buffalo Philharmonic and The Florida Orchestra, has included numerous chamber performances and recordings.

Thompkins has graced prestigious stages worldwide, performing with renowned ensembles including the New York Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, San Francisco Symphony, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. His dedication to musical excellence and innovation is evident in his diverse repertoire, spanning classical masterpieces to contemporary works.

As a recording artist, Thompkins’ Sonatas, Songs and Spirituals featuring the music of Alec Wilder, William Grant Still and Philip Wharton, won The American Prize in Instrumental Performance for 2018–2019. His latest recording, Compelling Portraits, features the music of contemporary Black Composers, including Shawn Okpebholo, Brian Nabors, Kevin Day, Maurice Draughn, and James Lee lll. 

“I strongly believe in supporting and performing the works of underrepresented composers, and I commissioned the works by Okpebholo, Draughn, and Lee heard on this recording,” he explained.

In addition, Thompkins has performed and conducted masterclasses at many music schools. An active chamber musician, he performs frequently in recitals and is a member of Detroit Chamber Winds and Strings. With extensive experience to his credit, he is now anticipating his new role at MSU.  

"As the next trombone professor at Michigan State University, I am most looking forward to developing relationships with students, faculty, and staff," Thompkins said, sharing his enthusiasm. "It is within these relationships that we will move towards accomplishing our goals of inclusion, educating, and performing at the highest levels.”

Justin Emerich, associate professor of trumpet and chair of the MSU Brass Area, expressed his excitement about Thompkins' appointment, highlighting his extensive performance experience and commitment to mentorship.

"We are very excited to have Ken Thompkins join the faculty at Michigan State University," Emerich said. "He has an immense amount of performance experience and a passion for education and mentorship of young professionals. We can't wait to begin collaborating with Ken and to see the impact he will have on our entire College of Music."

The appointment of Thompkins comes with the retirement of long-time trombone professor of Ava Ordman who leaves a strong legacy at MSU. Thompkins said that students can expect his studio to be rigorous but also encouraging and fun.

“I encourage my students to be curious about music, trombone performance and life,” Thompkins explained. “There is always something to be learned if we are attentive and curious. The journey of a musician is a continuous cycle of inspiration, imagination, study and evaluation. I want the students to fully embrace the journey of being a musician and to realize their full potential.”

Like many musicians, a band teacher in elementary school suggested Thompkins try the instrument that would later become the center of his career. The music of jazz trombonist JJ Johnson helped develop his affection for the sound and character of the trombone. 

Appreciative of the public school system that supported his early music development, he also realizes the importance of individual support for aspiring musicians. It was his parents’ ability to provide the instruments, lessons, and transportation to his musical activities that helped set him on a path to success. For today’s college student, scholarship support is often the key to success, allowing young musicians to focus on their passion and stay fully engaged in becoming a professional. 

“Over the course of my career, one of the greatest lessons I have learned is to maintain the sense of wonder about music. This sense of wonder and reverence keeps musicians engaged, curious and growing,” Thompkins said. “There is so much to learn from the music itself and those around us that I am constantly inspired and motivated. This key to sustaining a passion towards learning is something that I will pass on to every student.”