Period

:

Romantic

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Concerto

 

Ashley Toms is a classical music artist who has made a name for herself in the world of percussion. Born on May 5, 1992, in San Diego, California, Toms grew up in a family of musicians. Her father was a drummer, and her mother was a pianist. From a young age, Toms was exposed to music and began playing the piano at the age of four. However, it was not until she was in middle school that she discovered her love for percussion. Toms attended the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts, where she studied percussion under the guidance of Dr. Richard Thompson. She also participated in the San Diego Youth Symphony and the California All-State Honor Band. After graduating from high school, Toms attended the University of Southern California, where she earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Percussion Performance. During her time at USC, Toms studied under the renowned percussionist, Joseph Pereira. She also had the opportunity to perform with the USC Thornton Symphony Orchestra, the USC Wind Ensemble, and the USC Percussion Ensemble. In 2014, Toms was awarded the USC Thornton School of Music Outstanding Graduate Award. After graduating from USC, Toms continued her studies at the Yale School of Music, where she earned a Master of Music degree in Percussion Performance. While at Yale, Toms studied under the guidance of Robert van Sice and performed with the Yale Philharmonia and the Yale Percussion Group. Toms has performed with a number of orchestras and ensembles throughout her career. In 2015, she was a member of the percussion section for the Pacific Symphony's production of "The Planets" by Gustav Holst. She has also performed with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the San Diego Symphony, and the New Haven Symphony Orchestra. In addition to her work as a classical percussionist, Toms is also a member of the percussion quartet, Clocks in Motion. The group, which was founded in 2011, has performed throughout the United States and has been praised for its innovative and engaging performances. Toms has received numerous awards and accolades throughout her career. In 2013, she was a finalist in the Pasadena Showcase House Instrumental Competition. In 2014, she was awarded the USC Thornton School of Music Outstanding Graduate Award. In 2015, she was a finalist in the Yamaha Young Performing Artists Competition. Toms is also a passionate educator and has taught percussion at the University of Southern California, the Colburn School, and the Idyllwild Arts Academy. She has also given masterclasses and clinics at schools and universities throughout the United States. In addition to her work as a performer and educator, Toms is also a composer. Her compositions have been performed by a number of ensembles, including the USC Percussion Ensemble and the Yale Percussion Group. Overall, Ashley Toms is a talented and accomplished classical music artist who has made a significant impact in the world of percussion. Her dedication to her craft and her passion for music have earned her numerous awards and accolades, and her innovative and engaging performances have captivated audiences throughout the United States.

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