Christopher J. Kent (“Chris”) received his Bachelor of Music degree in percussion performance from Western Connecticut State University, graduating “Cum Laude” in 1996.  Mr. Kent studied percussion with David L. Smith, principal percussionist with the New Haven Symphony Orchestra. 

As an educator, Chris has been teaching percussion privately and has taught several High School Marching Band percussion drumlines and “pit” percussion ensembles since 1991.  He has taught percussion professionally since 1996.  Mr. Kent has been part of the Thames Valley Music School faculty since 1996 as well.  He currently teaches at the Lyme/Old Lyme satellite where in addition to his teaching at TVMS, Chris also teaches percussion at Ron’s Guitars Music Center and Stewart’s Music.

As a performer, Mr. Kent currently plays drumset, percussion and Timpani in the St. Mary’s Mother of the Redeemer church choir and is a member of the congregation.  Chris has been called upon as a freelance percussionist, performing at churches, musicals, parades, private parties, weddings, and for professional musical ensembles, such as The Norwich Concert Band, The Silver Cornet Band, The Sergio Franchi Orchestra and The Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra.

In addition to his private teaching and performing career, Mr. Kent is also a self-employed percussion repair technician and has done repairs for many public and private schools and colleges throughout the state of Connecticut. Chris has been a member of the American Federation of Musicians (Local 285-403) since 1996 and a member of the Percussive Arts Society since 1992.