Tom started playing professionally in Chicago in 1992 while working on his B.A and Music Education degrees at NIU.

Although school was a great experience, nothing compared to the knowledge and inspiration received from Chicago’s south side scene and musicians where he often got to be around and learn from legendary jazz saxophonist Von Freeman.

2000-2008 was a period of European tours with blues legends Lurie and Carrie Bell while also performing in Chicago in between trips.

He has performed concerts with jazz greats Von Freeman and Dee Dee Bridgewater and continues to perform at concerts and clubs in and out of Chicago with various groups.