Background, professional training and performance history
Thomas Guastavino, tenor, has a degree in Musical Theater from DeSales University and is currently pursuing his Music Education K-12 teaching certification at the University of Oregon. He is an active participant in The Shedd’s musical theater productions as well as UO Chamber Choir including a Spring ‘22 concert tour of Spain and the Oregon Bach Festival performing in St. Matthew Passion. He also has broad experience in vocal music including work as a section leader with the Eugene Symphony Orchestra’s Tristan and Isolde and various opera and church gigs. Currently, Thomas volunteers as a vocal coach for the Parkinson’s Choir produced by U of O’s Speech Therapy program.
In addition to his strong vocal skills, Thomas studied trumpet, violin, and viola in his hometown, Pottsville, PA. He has since played in various ensembles including Schuylkill Youth Symphony Orchestra, UNICO marching band and Jazz Ensemble at Lane Community College. He learned to play and teach primary flute and piano at University of Oregon as well. Thomas now provides beginner instrumental music lessons in addition to coaching in his primary instrument, voice.
Artist statement and teaching philosophy
Thomas has been extremely fortunate to experience such a depth and breadth of vocal and instrumental music styles that he sees music education as a door to a hallway full of doors. He learned the basics of music when his parents enrolled him in piano at a young age, and he wants to share the same foundation with his students. Music brings us closer to ourselves and our community because it provides creative expression as well as the chance to create with others something you cannot create on your own. Everyone comes to music with some level of ability and desire to express or interact. As a teacher, Thomas pays attention to the details of what the student wants out of their musical training and guides them across a bridge of skills required to achieve their goals.
Instruments & classes taught
Thomas teaches voice, piano, trumpet, violin, and flute (youth).
Musical theater and classical voice: beginning and intermediate, fundamental support and posture, vocal production, singing and character acting, “telling the story” through music (all ages).
Music Theory, Music Literacy/reading music (all ages).