WSW: When did you compose your first piece?
TD: I believe the first piece of music I composed was an acoustic guitar/recorder duet; I was 16 and in love with Mike Oldfield’s early music.

WSW: Do you play an instrument or sing?
TD: Even though I have taught myself a bunch of instruments—mainly traditional/folk (guitar, French and Scottish bagpipes, mandolin, tin whistle, bodhrán, tabla, etc.)—I have studied voice (tenor), violin and piano “formally.”

WSW: What has been your biggest challenge in composing a piece?
TD: The biggest challenge I face in composing a piece is trying to craft a narrative while hiding it at the same time.

Be sure to check out Thomas’ music and exciting new blog, www.icareifyoulisten.org.