Chad Thompson

A proud graduate of the Mary Pappert School of Music at Duquesne University, Chad is the current director of bands at Bethel Park High School. During his time at Duquesne, he studied conducting with Dr. Don McKinney and Dr. Robert Cameron. He was a percussion student of Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra members Chris Allen, Andrew Reamer, and Jeremy Branson as well as a drum set student of Lenny Rogers. In addition, Chad was involved in the Jazz program at Duquesne playing drum set in the Jazz Workshop and Jazz Ensemble for Mike Tomaro and Sean Jones. Finally, Chad greatly benefited from the expertise of the renowned music education faculty; Dr. Paul Doerksen, Dr. Stephen Benham, Mrs. Christine Jordanoff, and Ms. Elizabeth Moll.

His teaching responsibilities at Bethel Park include Freshman Band, Concert Band, Symphonic Band, and Jazz Ensemble. In addition, he is the head director of the Black Hawk Marching Band and a Co-Department Facilitator for the Bethel Park School District. During his time at Bethel Park, the bands have consistently earned superior ratings, first place rankings, and best overall awards through national music competitions. Most recently, the Bethel Park High School Symphonic Band was selected as a feature performing ensemble for the 2020 PMEA All-State Conference. The National Band Association has recognized Chad's work with the Symphonic Band by awarding the group a Citation of Excellence in December of 2020. Chad is an active member of the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA), where most recently he completed a six-year term as an officer. During this time, he also served the state organization at large as a member of the PMEA State Board from 2015–2017. He maintains active involvement through hosting numerous festivals as well as chairing committees at the District level. Chad is also a proud member of the Nu Chapter of Phi Beta Mu, International Bandmasters Fraternity, and an active member of the National Band Association.

Chad currently lives in Bethel Park, PA with his wife, Theresa, and two children, Brooke and Peter.

• B.S. Music Education, Duquesne University

• Instrumental Music

• Marching Band

• Jazz

• Percussion