Left Field Presents

Fred Tompkins Trio

The Fred Tompkins Trio specializes in the art of free improvisation. However, being keenly aware of overall form, this group makes a conscious effort, from one improv to another, to vary its formats, moods and tempos. When the mood of the moment demands a shift in direction, however, they will be more than ready to take off and create a new form.

The individual musicians in this endeavor each have so much to offer: Fred Tompkins with his broad range of sounds, styles and effects, covering the full spectrum of flutes, from C flute to alto flute and down to bass flute; pianist Greg Mills (doubling on melodica) with his ability to play in all styles of music and to react so perfectly in the moment, and percussionist Glen ‘Papa’ Wright, Jr. who can drive hard, play with a light touch, and of course tap on his immense variety of percussion sounds.

Friday, Oct. 16, 2026

Left Field Series

Rogers Whitmore Recital Hall

Start: 8 | Doors: 7

Fred Tompkins Trio

Fred Tompkins: Flute
Greg Mills: Piano &Melodica
Glen ‘Papa’ Wright, Jr.: Percussion


All performances/personnel, dates are subject to Pandemic Developments. We adhere to Boone Co./Columbia Health Dept. & CDC Guidelines.

© 2009—2026 "We Always Swing" ® Jazz Series. All Rights Reserved. 21 N. 10th St., Columbia, MO 65201 | Tickets: 573-449-3009 ext. 1

The "We Always Swing”® Jazz Series is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation administered by “We Always Swing,” Inc. The Jazz Series is supported by: concert revenue; federal, state and local grants and contracts; corporate sponsorships; underwriting and advertising-derived income; and by the generosity of individuals who make tax-deductible contributions. “We Always Swing”® and “The Swinging Saxophonist”™ logo are registered trademarks of “We Always Swing,”® Inc./National Pastimes Productions™ and may not be reproduced in print or digital format without prior consent.