We recently connected with Thomas Fry and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Thomas, thanks for joining us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

Overall, I find immense fulfillment as an artist. While there are moments when doubts creep in, questioning whether a career in music is the right choice, I always circle back to the fact that there’s nothing else I’d rather be doing. Even if I had a “regular job,” I would continue to create music; it’s an innate expression that flows from within me. It’s often said that one should turn their hobby into their career, and I’ve wholeheartedly embraced that philosophy. Music isn’t just a job for me; it’s a deeply ingrained part of who I am. I’ve taken something I would gladly do for free and transformed it into a profession. This alignment of passion and career not only brings me happiness but also a sense of purpose and authenticity in my work. So while the path of an artist may have its challenges, I wouldn’t trade it for anything else.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hello, and thank you for the opportunity to share about myself and my work. My name is Thomas Fry, I am a passionate music professional and entrepreneur who graduated from the University of Miami Frost School of Music with a bachelor’s degree in Music Business and Jazz Saxophone in 2022. Since then, I’ve returned to my hometown of LA, where I’ve been fully immersed in the music industry, providing a diverse range of services to meet various musical needs.

Background and Services:

My journey into the music industry began with a love for jazz saxophone and a desire to explore the business side of music. Today, I offer a diverse set of services tailored to both fellow musicians and clients seeking memorable musical experiences.

Live Saxophone Performance: Whether it’s corporate events, weddings, or intimate gatherings, I’m dedicated to delivering elegance and vibrancy to any occasion.

Recording Artist: I bring a unique blend of jazz, bebop, alternative rock, and funk influences to the studio. Proficient in collaborating with producers and fellow musicians to craft original tracks that captivate audiences.

Music Teacher: Sharing my passion for music with others is incredibly rewarding. I teach lessons for saxophone, flute, clarinet, music theory, and music production.

Band Leader and Collaborations:

I am the band leader of the TJ Fry Jazz Band, a collective of talented musicians committed to both honoring and pushing the boundaries of jazz. We currently have a monthly residency at Tarantula Hill Brewing in Thousand Oaks every third Thursday. Additionally, I’m involved in several other bands, including The Boland Underground (alternative rock), Bonnie Boy (psycho surf jazz), Singular Nature (Reggie), Oriana&Co (pop funk) and Illegal Fun (Steely Dan tribute band). These diverse musical projects allow me to explore different genres, collaborate with fellow artists, and continually evolve as a musician.

Mission and Differentiation:

What sets me apart is my genuine love for collaboration and my commitment to enhancing others’ musical visions. I thrive on the creative exchange that occurs when working with different artists and bands, and I take immense pride in contributing to the success of their projects. Whether I’m performing on stage, recording in the studio, or teaching aspiring musicians, my mission remains the same: to inspire, uplift, and connect through the power of music.

Conclusion:

In summary, I am deeply passionate about music in all its forms, and I am dedicated to providing exceptional experiences through my performances, recordings, and teaching endeavors. I invite potential clients, followers, and fans to join me on this musical journey, where collaboration, creativity, and authenticity reign supreme.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Ultimately, my primary motivation and mission on my creative journey is to spread love and inspiration to those around me. Witnessing the transformative power of music firsthand, observing how it touches people’s lives and uplifts their spirits, is incredibly gratifying. It’s these moments that fuel my desire to continuously improve and affirm that I’m on the right path. My goal is not just to create music, but to create experiences that resonate with others, fostering connection, joy, and inspiration wherever I go.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Music school was undoubtedly enriching, honing my skills and shaping me into a more well-rounded individual. However, the shift to online classes during my sophomore and junior years due to the COVID-19 pandemic presented a significant challenge. Let me tell you, attempting to learn music through a screen is no easy feat. I struggled to adapt to this new format, feeling disconnected and disheartened by the lack of personal interaction and hands-on instruction. During this time, I often grappled with feelings of inadequacy amidst a sea of exceptionally talented peers. While this environment fostered growth, it also led to burnout and moments of questioning my path. My saxophone, at times, felt more like a tool for assignments and grades rather than a source of joy and expression. Yet, upon graduation and my return to Los Angeles, I experienced a profound shift in perspective. For the first time, I was not confined by assignments and grades. I reignited my desire to create music for myself, marking the beginning of a journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration fueled by genuine passion and creativity. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance and self-belief in the face of adversity, reminding me that setbacks are opportunities for growth. As I continue to navigate the music industry, I draw strength from this journey, knowing that my passion for music is unwavering.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/tjfry101
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tjfry101/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjfrymusic/