Biography

Julie Thomas is originally from Hampshire, Illinois. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Piano Performance and Master of Arts in Teaching from Clarke University in Dubuque, Iowa, and Master of Music in Choral Conducting from University of Northern Iowa. Thomas taught at Columbus Catholic High School in Waterloo, Iowa for eight years, directing a concert choir, two show choirs, concert band, jazz band, show choir band, color guard, and serving as music director for musicals. Thomas currently teaches at Tipton High School, where she directs three curricular choirs, coaches color guard, and serves as music director for musicals. During her tenure at Tipton, Thomas’ ensembles have consistently earned Superior Division I Ratings in State Competition. Many small ensembles have been awarded Best of Center in State Competition, and several students have been selected to the Iowa All-State Chorus.

Thomas has served as music director for Waterloo Community Playhouse and Cedar County Stoplight Players. In addition to musically directing over 25 shows, she enjoys the limelight of the stage, having performed in most recently in Ordinary Days playing the role of Claire with Mount Vernon Lisbon Community Theatre. Other favorite roles include the Witch (Into the Woods) and Molokov (Chess).

In addition, she performs with Vocal Artists of Iowa. Thomas lives in Tipton with her husband Jason, daughters Anna and Paige, and dog Rommel.