Stanford Thompson

Stanford Thompson is a musician and educator distinguished as the Founder and Executive Director of Play On Philly and Founding Board Chairman of El Sistema USA.

He is passionate about providing music education to students in underprivileged areas in Philadelphia and beyond, viewing music as a catalyst for positive personal and community transformation.

Recognized as a TED Fellow, Stanford actively advocates for equitable access to the arts by serving in various roles and capacities within the music education landscape.

Apart from his leadership roles, he is also a skilled consultant, assisting in the establishment of numerous music programs nationwide and collaborating with prominent orchestras, educational institutions, and arts organizations to devise innovative strategies for enhancing arts accessibility.

In addition to his educational endeavors, Stanford Thompson has a rich background as a professional trumpeter, having showcased his talent as a soloist and ensemble member with leading orchestras worldwide, alongside his continued performances in chamber music and jazz.

Hailing from Atlanta, GA, Stanford pursued his education at The Curtis Institute of Music and the New England Conservatory’s Sistema Fellows Program, obtaining a Bachelor of Music in Trumpet Performance and a Certificate in Sistema Fellows Program, respectively.