T.J. Troy combines an eclectic knowledge of percussion from around the world with his innate musicality to create a distinct and powerful voice in the world of contemporary percussion. Be it as a member of many high caliber ensembles, a soloist or with the numerous artists he collaborates with, T.J. is quickly becoming a true phenomenon in the Los Angeles music community. Known for his high-energy performance and broad range of disciplines, T.J. performs in a number of ensembles, including MESTO, the Elvis Schoenberg Orchestra Surreal, Tabla Rasa, Freshly Squeezed, and Just Strings, an ensemble specializing in the music of Harry Partch.
He has taught classes and workshops at the California Institute of the Arts, La Sierra University, the Oakwood School, and currently serves on the faculty of Bethesda Christian University, a position he has held since 2004. T.J. is an active performer and composer for television and film; recently, he was awarded the Gaia Award from the Moondance International Film Festival, for his score to Den Serras' film, "Seven Swans," co-written with composer Leon Rothenberg. His compositions have been performed by the University of Michigan Creative Arts Orchestra, the CalArts Percussion Ensemble, Condensation, OK Composer, and Freshly Squeezed.
T.J. received his Bachelor of Music degree in Percussion Performance from the University of Michigan, and his Master of Fine Arts degree, specializing in Percussion, from the California Institute of the Arts. His principle instructors have been Michael Udow, Julie Spencer, David Johnson, John Bergamo, Randy Gloss, and he continues his study of North Indian tabla with Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri. Currently stationed in Los Angeles, T.J. has performed extensively throughout the United States, and maintains a rigorous performance schedule throughout the year.