Thomas Wharton
Front Ensemble

Thomas Wharton is a Michigan-based percussion instructor and music arranger with extensive experience working with competitive ensembles across the United States. He resides in Macomb, Michigan, where he serves as the Assistant Percussion Director at Dakota High School. At Dakota, Thomas is instrumental in instructing the marching band and indoor drumline, arranging music for both percussion and winds, and managing a robust private lessons program. Additionally, Thomas currently works with The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps, Huron Valley Percussion, and the Ferndale High School Marching Band.

Thomas’s teaching career includes significant roles in various programs. He notably led Lake Orion Percussion from 2022 to 2023, guiding the ensemble to its first-ever state championship in the PSO class, alongside securing multiple MCBA medals with the marching band. His teaching experience also spans several other institutions, including Cap City Percussion, Cap City 2, Apex Percussion, Hastings HS, Lamphere HS, Plymouth Canton Educational Park, and Southgate Anderson HS.

As a performer, Thomas participated in marching arts at Lake Orion High School, Northcoast Academy from 2015 to 2017, The Cavaliers in 2015, Carolina Crown in 2016, and Cavaliers Indoor in 2018.

Thomas holds a BA in Philosophy from Oakland University, where he also minored in music. During his time at Oakland, he performed with the Percussion Ensemble, Wind Symphony, Steel Band, World Music Ensemble, and Oakland Symphony Orchestra. He continues to perform with local bands and orchestras as opportunities arise.