Biography
Born in Arkansas and raised in Arlington, Texas, Sergeant First Class Thomas Davis began playing trumpet at the age of 11 and later attended James Martin High School. He received his undergraduate education from the University of North Texas, where he performed with the prestigious One and Two O’clock Lab Bands. Before joining the Jazz Ambassadors in 2013, Sgt. 1st Class Davis was an active freelance musician and horn arranger in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area. He has performed with Gladys Knight, The Temptations, and Dave Brubeck, and has recorded with various gospel acts in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Sgt. 1st Class Davis also enjoys composing music, playing electric bass, and working out with kettlebells.
Member of the Jazz Ambassadors
The Jazz Ambassadors, the U.S. Army’s premier big band, was formed in 1969 and is celebrated both nationally and internationally for performing America’s original art form—jazz. Known as “America’s Big Band,” this 19-member ensemble showcases versatile programming, including classic big band standards, solos, patriotic tunes, contemporary jazz, and original compositions by its members. Many of these works are available through their jazz education initiative, Perspectives.
The Jazz Ambassadors have performed across all 50 states and in Canada, Mexico, Europe, Japan, and India, joining prestigious orchestras like the Boston Pops and National Symphony and appearing at major jazz festivals in Montreux, Newport, and Toronto. Their performances reflect a rich legacy, met with acclaim for celebrating jazz’s unique spirit worldwide.