Thomas Crispell is a Woodhaven High School student, and senior, aspiring to become a music teacher. Thomas primarily plays trumpet in concert band. He also plays the piano and in his band, he plays drums. Along with his talent in playing instruments, he is also gifted in composing music. He has written 5 pieces, one being performed by the Woodhaven High School concert winds on May 23. Thomas has been playing since fifth grade, so about seven years. He is incredibly passionate about spreading the word of music and why it is so special.
Is there anyone specifically that has inspired you to pursue music?
Specifically, no, I was more influenced by a broad range of music. I’d say music in shows as a kid is what truly caused me to go into music. Movies like Lion King, Hercules, Aladdin are what really inspired me.
In your opinion, are there any advantages to being a musician? If so, what are they?
One advantage of being a musician is that it comes easy, and I can make a living out of it. I think it’s almost unnatural to get a job that would fit me so well and I am very fortunate to have such a passion for music. The advantage is that I have a lifetime of learning ahead of me, so long as I keep my fingers.
What is your favorite part about being a musician?
My favorite part about being a musician is the feeling it gives me. A phenomenon known as Frisson occurs in 55% to 86% of the total population, and most commonly with music. Frisson is due to an overstimulation from the nerves that connect our eardrum to our brain’s reward system, causing you to get goosebumps, a chilling feeling, and an overall body shiver. This can also be amplified if your brain also rewards you for guessing correctly, which our brains love to do.
What are you most excited for in your future career?
I’m mostly excited to learn more about music, why it makes us feel the way we do, how it brings people together, and how it can totally change a person. I look forward to being a lifelong learner.
Is there any musician or composer you look up to? If so, who and why?
The person I look up to the most is probably Mr. Faryniarz when I think about it. As much as I am influenced by artists online, I’m not watching how they perform like how I watch Faryniarz teach. He is a great teacher and explains things in relatable, creative ways, something I hope to do later on in my life. He comes to work everyday with the same attitude as the day before, i can tell it isn’t easy to be so laid back and it’s something I’ve always admired.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years I’d love to be going back to school to pursue my masters or traveling somewhere to receive a higher education, hopefully teaching music as well. I have a rocky road ahead of me working as a teacher, so plans may change based on the state of my life by then.
What are some short-term goals of yours?
Short term, I plan on graduating high school, excelling at CMU, and probably mastering my music skills.
Can you share a memorable moment from your music career so far?
My most memorable moment so far would be writing my first piece of music. I was probably 15/16 at the time and had recently learned how to notate music on the computer. I never got the chance to show anyone my songs due to losing my account there, but just those few months of no experience experimentation was enough to make me write more. Hearing something that had been a simple melody in my head get turned into a song is so surreal, so rewarding.
What aspect of music are you most passionate about? Whether it be playing, conducting, writing, teaching, and why?
I’m most passionate about spreading the love of music. After thinking, spreading the love is something I know I strive for, yet am reluctant to do. Tying into stereotypes, it’s seen as nerdy or geeky to be in a band, labeled band kid, most of the time, which is okay, that’s not the issue. The issue arises when I try to share that feeling of music to others who aren’t in a band. I want more people to be involved but I don’t think others’ responses would be anything close to nice. So I tend not to suggest band to anyone and rarely share any thoughts I have about music with others.
What is one thing you’d like to say as a piece of advice for someone who is looking into starting their musical path?
My biggest piece of advice for anyone thinking about going into music is to try. Most people turn their heads from music just because they think they aren’t qualified, which is silly. The only thing that prevents someone from picking up an instrument to learn is themselves, and that’s something that can be helped. Think you need to work on your rhythms? Practice. Your tone is bad? Practice. Haven’t touched an instrument? Pick one up! My advice would be to try before saying no to music.
