| Chris Thomson arrived at the Crossmen percussion program in 1976 along with several music majors from West Chester University. His impact on the program was immediately evident as his background in piano and melody would serve as a substantial upgrade to the keyboard and mallet portion of the percussion. Chris' presence was a valued addition from the start and added depth and notoriety to an already rising program.
As the Crossmen moved into DCI finalist status, Chris' energy and enthusiasm bacame a motivating force for the entire organization. In 1978, while still a marching member, Chris' collaboration on the corps opener "Jazz Rhapsody" was an absolute work of art and the scoring and musicality was the birth of a new sound and direction in the Crossmen percussion program.
As Chris' marching days came to an end, he was just getting started in what would be his real forte, teaching and writing. In 1979, Chris became a member of the Crossmen percussion staff. He helped produce some of the finest drumlines to ever hit the field, and his aggressive ideas and presence was undeniable from 1979-1983. Chris Thompson was a huge contributor to what we have come to know and cherish today as the "Crossmen percussion experience."
Chris spent eight seasons with the Crossmen and in 1984 left to pursue a new challenge with the Madison Scouts. He took his experience to Madison and built another fine program, eventually going on to win DCI with the Scouts in 1988.
Chris exemplifies the true commitment that made the fraternity of Crossmen percussionist what it is today. Congratulations on this well deserved recognition of an outstanding Crossmen.
Inducted: 2011
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