Jeff Thompson (extended bio)
Jeff Thompson began his trombone studies while a young boy in fifth grade. He continued trombone lessons and playing in school concert bands and stage bands through high school. While in high school, Jeff performed in the pit orchestra for the school's productions of the musicals, "My Fair Lady", "Pajama Game", and "West Side Story." Jeff was performing with the high school's stage band when their guest artist was the late baritone saxophonist, Nick Brignola.
While at the University of Buffalo, Jeff studied under the famous Count Basie sideman, tenor saxophonist Frank Foster. He appeared with Mr. Foster's ensemble on-stage during the musical production "Love You Madly" presented by the university. Mr. Thompson was also a member of the university's jazz ensemble.
Since graduating, Jeff was a member of the Milpitas Community Concert Band for several years. He also played in the pit orchestra for the Milpitas Rainbow Theater's productions of "Hello Dolly" and "Guys and Doll."
Jeff's favorite trombonists are Urbie Green, Bill Watrous and Andy Martin. among his favorite small jazz combos are Horace Silver, Clifford Brown - Max Roach, and the Dave Brubeck Quartet.
When Jeff joined Ginga, all the other horns were saxophone players. Jeff, who improvises mainly by ear, continues to work on his jazz playing. As Ginga's resident goof, his favorite performance is the group's occasional pizza parties. Currently, his favorite Ginga tune is Makin' Whoopee, sung by vocalist Deborah. His goal is to master the doodle-tonguing method of trombone playing.