Thomas Sparling

Visual & Drill Designer

 Thomas Sparling is a full-time visual designer and percussion educator based in Cincinnati, Ohio. A 2009 graduate of Miami University (OH), he earned degrees in Music Education, Music Performance, and Music Composition, along with a minor in Arts Management. 

 Thomas has taught and directed a number of successful programs throughout southwest Ohio, including William Mason HS, Centerville HS, Bellbrook HS, Kettering Fairmont HS, and Northmont HS, where he served as Percussion Director. He currently teaches percussion at Kings HS in Cincinnati.

His design and instructional experience extends to several renowned drum corps and indoor ensembles. Thomas has been part of the percussion staff for the Glassmen Drum and Bugle Corps (2012–2013), Phantom Regiment (2019–2022), Matrix Performing Arts (2013–2023), Madison Scouts (2013, 2015–2016, 2024–present), and Cap City Percussion (2013–2015, 2019–2022, 2024–present), where he currently serves as Visual Designer for Cap City World and CC2.

Since transitioning to full-time design work in 2016, his creative influence has reached ensembles across Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Illinois, Louisiana, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, and Italy.

As a performer, Thomas marched bass drum with the Glassmen Drum and Bugle Corps (2006) and Rhythm X (2006–2009). He has presented clinics on show design and rehearsal techniques throughout the Midwest, as well as in Taiwan and Italy.