Tom Dante
Freelance Musician, Music Teacher, and Huge Rockstar in Southern California
Current Projects
A large amount of his work is with Matt Mauser in the Sinatra Big Band, and with Pete Jacobs in his bands. Additionally, Tom leads his own Tom Dante Trio (featuring Chris Barron on keys and Ernie Nuñez on bass) at a weekly gig at Skyloft in Laguna Beach for the past 2+ years and as a house/backing band for concerts, special events, and fund-raisers.
Tom works with Tony Guerrero for worship music, live jazz, and various sessions. He also plays with jazz artists Dean Grech, Greg Vail, and Jay Gore. He also records with his original rock/punk band Human Haggis.
Previously, Tom led R&B Gospel group Alva & Praise for their monthly Gospel Dinner as well as The Dante Set, a 5-piece jazz fusion.
He played worship music at Journey Church in Irvine, CA for 8 years. He previously played at Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, CA for 14 years, primarily in the Praise Gospel venue, but also for many recording sessions, live events, and broadcasts.
Tom recently stepped down from teaching in the Popular Music Conservatory at Orange County School of the Arts as Music Teacher for both High School and Jr. High levels.
Lastly, Tom teaches private lessons at both his studio and at students' homes.
Other Work
Tom plays and records with Tom Brooks of Integrity Music, David Pack of Ambrosia, and has done some travel dates with John Tesh. Lastly, he works as a clinician for Yamaha Worship Resources. He has recorded and performed with Abe Laboriel, Paul Jackson Jr., Michael Landau, Sheila E, Larry Carlton, Bob Somma, Baby do Brazil, Morris Chapman, Melvin Davis, Charles Billingsley, Rick Tatum, and many more.
Education
Tom attended the famed Dick Grove School of Music for Drumset Studies. He also attended both Fullerton College and Cal State Fullerton and was involved in their music programs.
Personal
Tom started piano lessons when he was six years old. He made drums his primary instrument in jr. high so that he could join the high school marching band with his friends. His first paid gig came at 16 years old, playing the drum solo from “Sing, Sing, Sing” for a locally produced cable TV commercial.
Some of his personal highlights include playing for the State Honors Symphony under the direction of Henry Mancini, playing pop and dance music at the North Pole, dancing as Fred Astaire in the Super Bowl XXI Half-Time Show, and playing the Saddleback Town Hall Forum featuring Senators Barack Obama and John McCain for worldwide, multi-network broadcast.