Hometown:
Byron Center, Michigan
Education:
Hillsdale College Other Bachelor of Arts 2019
University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music Master of Music 2021
Bio:
Thomas Ryskamp is an accomplished pianist with a broad range of experience that includes solo piano, vocal and instrumental repertoire, opera, and musical theatre. After receiving his Master of Music in Collaborative Piano, he began working at Hillsdale College as Staff Pianist and Adjunct Instructor of Music. Thomas has spent his last three summers at opera festivals in Florida and Italy, and he has played for 18 musicals.
What inspired you to become a musician?
I read "The Unashamed Accompanist" by Gerald Moore and realized that there were more career paths in music than just being a solo pianist.
Name your favorite composers and/or pieces:
Mozart, Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Rachmaninoff – I love a good melody.
What is an interesting fact about you and/or your instrument?
I also play organ and sing in a community choir.
When taking a break from music-making, what is your favorite thing to do?
Listen to podcasts and watch football.
Why did you choose the NRO?
I attended Brevard Music Center for Collaborative Piano several years ago, and one of the highlights for me was getting to play in the orchestra. I love playing orchestral repertoire but only occasionally get to do it. I'm excited to be able to spend a summer to focus on that and to make music with a group of really talented fellow instrumentalists.