Trombonist

Premiered by trombonist Kenneth Thompkins and the DSO in 2023, Carlos Simon’s moving concerto commemorates the Underground Railroad and, in Simon’s words, “the stories, accounts, and experiences told by many enslaved people and abolitionists.” Thomas Wilkins also conducts William Grant Still’s vibrant and uplifting Fourth Symphony, which celebrates a wide variety of American musical cultures.

Classical Roots

Detroit Symphony Orchestra

The Musician Series offers a unique space where classical music takes center stage, brought to life by the talented musicians of the Lansing Symphony Orchestra. With each performance, we dive into the rich tradition of classical chamber music, offering a space to truly connect with the music. Held in the intimate setting of Molly Grove Chapel at the First Presbyterian Church of Lansing, these concerts offer a personal, immersive experience—a moment to pause, reflect, and be moved by the power of timeless works.

EPSG:4326

Holiday Brass

First Presbyterian Church of Lansing

Kenneth Thompkins, Associate Professor of Trombone at Michigan State University and Principal Trombonist of the Detroit Symphony will perform a trombone recital. Thompkins will perform music by African American composers William Grant Still, Kevin Day, and Brian Nabors as well as works by Alec Wilder and Ida Gotkovsky. Julie Nishimura, retired collaborative pianist of the University of Delaware School of Music, returns to perform alongside Mr. Thompkins on this program.

Kenneth Thompkins, trombone, Guest Artist

University of Delaware

“Detroit Renaissance” is a cross artistic discipline concert featuring music, poetry, and art with a Detroit focus. Ken Thompkins, Maurice Draughn and Joe Becker will perform the music of Maurice Draughn and premiere “African Violet” by Jeff Scott. Detroit poet Kalimah Johnson will read some of her original poems. The DIA’s African American art collection will serve as a perfect setting for “Detroit Renaissance.”

Trombonist

Kenneth Thompkins

Events

Past events

6 - 7 Mar, 2026

Classical Roots · Detroit Symphony Orchestra

Dec 7, 2025

Holiday Brass · Lansing Symphony Orchestra

Future and recently performed repertoire

Trombone in Troubled Water by Simon

Detroit Symphony Orchestra

About

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