Rob Thomas biography

Rob Thomas has been recognized by international critics and audiences as one of the most original, technically adept and powerful violinists playing jazz and contemporary music.

Thomas has been a vibrant and active part of the dynamic jazz/improvised music scene in New York City since moving there in 1990.  He performs and records with The Jazz Passengers, often featuring guests Elvis Costello and Deborah Harry.  Rob most recently became a member of the acclaimed and legendary String Trio of New York, joining guitarist James Emery and bassist John Lindberg as the group neared its 25th season.  He is an active free-lancer, contributing to recent recordings by Lee Konitz, Andy Summers, and Los Jovenes del Barrio.  He has also performed with Aretha Franklin, Tito Puente, Max Roach, Bobby Previte, Claude Williams, and The Soldier String Quartet.

While studying classical violin and music theory at the University of Oregon, he became interested in jazz and soon began working with the local players. He eventually toured throughout the Pacific Northwest as a leader on violin and a sideman on bass, gaining valuable experience in pick-up bands with jazz greats such as Joe Henderson, Eddie Harris, Mose Allison, Nat Adderley, Bobby Hutcherson and others.  Thomas's own groups made regular appearances at regional clubs and festivals and included such notable musicians as Glen Moore, Nancy King, Jerry Hahn, and John Handy.

See also: James Emery's biography · John Lindberg's biography