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Biography
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A Canadian-born, with Trinidadian roots, Darnell Thomas is a passionate and versatile vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, educator, entrepreneur, philanthropist. He possesses the versatility to sing and play several genres including but not limited to Musical Theatre, Jazz, R&B, Soul, Funk, Pop, Rock, Classical and Latin.
Darnell currently holds a master’s degree in Vocal Performance & Ethnomusicology from York University. He recently joined Sheridan College as a full-time Vocal Professor in the Music Theatre Program. He is a holistic educator who strives to inspire, motivate and teach young aspiring performers of all disciplines to be their best. As an educator with extensive knowledge of performing arts pedagogy, he has also been involved in mentorship and curriculum and program development at many schools including York University, Sheridan College and St. Elizabeth Catholic High School RAP Program. He regularly participates in education workshops in New York City, led by established Broadway directors, artists and performers. He has received tutelage from some of the world's renowned voice teachers like Seth Riggs (SLS Creator).
Professionally, Darnell has done musical work for hit TV shows like Glee and Disney's “Overruled!”. He has produced, directed, written and performed in numerous musicals and songs featured in films and tv shows. Select music directorial credits include Little Shop of Horrors, Hairspray, Footloose, Beauty & The Beast, Urinetown, Enchanting and Mamma Mia. As an entrepreneur, he co-founded The Institute For The Performing Arts, Cue The Lights Productions, Vocalics Music Group, D & The Groove Factory all housed under his holding company, TDM Creative Group. His philanthropical initiatives include several years of work with UNESCO (an arm of The United Nations), The Arts Access Fund and his own foundation, Keys To Dreams Foundation, which provides financial assistance through scholarships to performers. He is also a member of National Association of Teachers of Singing, Musical Theatre Educators’ Alliance and ACTRA RACS.
