BIOGRAPHY

Thomas Vanderzyde (b. 1996) is a Canadian musician, educator, author, and entrepreneur. No stranger to a good melody, some of his first memories center around listening to the Bee Gees in his family home in Vancouver, BC. Due to a disturbing lack of ice hockey after moving to Houston, Texas, Thomas picked up the guitar at age twelve in hopes of finding a new passion. His teenage years would be spent living under a rock trying to memorize album after album of Metallica, Iron Maiden, Megadeth, and Judas Priest discographies. Unable to find a University of Thrash Metal anywhere close to home, Thomas adapted to the classical guitar, discovering the world of Carcassi, Villa-Lobos, Tarrega, Mertz, and the like. Classically trained and armed with two degrees in music, Thomas now explores his own projects with an emphasis on musical passion, mastery, and creativity.

Thomas Vanderzyde holds an Associate of Arts degree from Collin College and a Bachelor of Music from Southwestern University. He now resides in Central Texas, where he spends his time composing, performing, recording, teaching, and otherwise sharing his love for the guitar with his ever-talented friends and fellow musicians.

MY FRIENDS

  • Evan McPherson

    Evan is recognized in the Pacific Northwest as a virtuoso musician and composer. Jazz Guitar Performance Degree graduate from Cornish College of the Arts relocated to Central Texas performing, teaching, and recording nationally.

  • Samantha Lynn

    Americana recording artist and songwriter from Central Texas. Samantha performs throughout Texas and her first full length album is set to be released this fall co-producing with Evan McPherson on lead guitar and bass.

  • Chaely Zigmond

    Chaely enjoys performing at many various venues across south and central Texas, and also loves to travel for events and shows far and beyond. If you want to experience the heart and soul of a true Texas sweetheart and artist, be sure to catch one of Chaely Zigmond’s performances.

  • Marco Polo

    Central Texas based musician, guitar tech, luthier, and audio engineer. Frontman of punk band Nuclear Nation and creator of Marco Polo Guitars.

  • Taylor & Zoey Andersen

    Highly skilled and dedicated to their craft, Taylor and Zoey share decades of experience in woodwind repair and performance. Check out their adventures on the road!

  • Matt Polo

    Versatile percussionist with a passion for anything rock and metal. Based in Central Texas, Matt performs with a vision and pocket like no other.

  • Carl Lennartson

    A Sarofim School of Fine Arts Southwestern University graduate in music composition, Carl composes for a variety of traditional and modern contexts and innovates with an inspiring and forward-thinking approach.

  • Alex Wilhelm

    The wearer of sunglasses, Alex can be found on stages across the US. A Southwestern University graduate in instrumental percussion performance, he keeps time better than a swiss watch.

  • Brett Cline

    A virtuoso pianist, Brett’s talent is highly sought after and recognized by many. From underground jazz to German polka, Brett’s contributions to musical culture across Central Texas have accumulated over decades.

  • Devon Krueger

    Drummer for metal band Left IV Dead, Devon keeps time with disgustingly filthy fills and beats. Check out his band’s latest single and catch them live at a show near you!

  • Mike Clayton

    Born and raised a rock-n-roll soul, Mike has been shredding for years. A true musician, his passion for guitar takes him to venues far and wide.