Bassist/Teacher/Conductor Thomas Derthick enjoys a diverse career of performing and education throughout Northern California and the Central Valley.  The long-time Principal Bassist of the Sacramento Symphony, Tom is currently Principal Bassist of the Sacramento Philharmonic, Opera, Ballet and Choral Society, as well as the Cabrillo Festival, America’s foremost Contemporary Music Festival.  He frequently performs with the Chamber Music Society of Sacramento and the Empyrean Ensemble, with whom he has recorded and toured.  Other performances include the San Francisco Symphony, San Francisco Opera, San Diego Symphony and Oregon Symphony, as well as recording work and Broadway shows. 

Tom has been on the applied faculty at California State University, Sacramento and the University of California, Davis since 1982.  Tom joined the faculty at the University of the Pacific Conservatory of Music in 1987; he has appeared there as a soloist and guest conductor.  His university and private studios have helped many students into major graduate conservatory programs and major professional orchestras.  In 2000 Tom was named Music Director of the Central Valley Youth Symphony.  Under his leadership the orchestra has expanded its performance schedule, enrollment and community outreach, and performed at New York’s Carnegie Hall.