TThomas Parchman, Clarinet Mentor & Director of Operations
Dr. Thomas Parchman brings exceptional artistry and extensive professional experience to his dual roles as clarinet mentor and director of operations. His musical foundation was built through study with America’s most distinguished clarinet pedagogues, including Robert Marcellus, Clark Brody, and Larry Combs. As a member of the Chicago Civic Orchestra, he participated in weekly sectionals with principal players from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and attended masterclasses that deepened his musical understanding.
Dr. Parchman’s international career began with his appointment as bass clarinetist for the Orquesta Sinfónica de Xalapa in Mexico, one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious orchestras. During his tenure with this ensemble, which performed 44 weeks annually and broadcast nationally, he was promoted to Assistant Principal Clarinet and Bass Clarinet. The orchestra’s ambitious programming of major symphonic works, national touring schedule, and recording projects provided him with invaluable professional experience.
Returning to the United States, Dr. Parchman performed with the Long Beach Symphony and Long Beach Grand Opera while pursuing doctoral studies at the University of Southern California. There, he studied clarinet with the renowned Mitchell Lurie and saxophone with Douglas Masek, further expanding his musical versatility.
In 1984, Dr. Parchman relocated to Maine through a unique joint appointment between the University of Southern Maine and the Portland Symphony Orchestra. He currently holds the rank of Professor at USM while serving as the Portland Symphony’s principal clarinetist, a position he has maintained since his arrival. In this capacity, he has performed concerti by Mozart, Copland, Krommer, Brahms/Berio’s Opus 120, and Bassi’s Rigoletto Fantasy. Additionally, he serves as bass/third clarinetist with the Rhode Island Philharmonic and performs regularly with Maine State Ballet, Portland Ballet, and Opera Maine.
Beyond his performing career, Dr. Parchman is deeply committed to music education and community outreach. He actively participates in collaborative projects between the Portland Symphony and local schools, presents ensemble concerts, and conducts demonstrations, clinics, and masterclasses throughout the region. His pedagogical success is evident in the achievements of his students, who have gone on to distinguished careers ranging from teaching positions in Maine schools to performing with major orchestras, including the Philadelphia Orchestra.
Email: operations@nationalmusic.us
