Thomson Smillie

A native of Louisville, former chorus member of Ky Opera, living in Rome, Italy, Thomson invited me to come as a principal artist in Rigoletto. He organised Tv and radio interviews. The reviews were excellent. I shall always cherish the memory of my return there in a major role, the casting, promotion, and the kind rapport with Thomson. I read the news of his demise late as I have been performing, and still living in Rome. On the internet a wonderful biography appeared in the Scottish...

Thomson, Bourbon Baroque is playing French Baroque for you today! (sans puppets) :)

We offer our most sincere sympathy to all the family members. His spirt will remain in our memories.

Thomson was incredibly observant, intuitive, engaging and warm to those who were lucky enough to know him. His whit and humor drew folks together in wonderful ways that we all must emulate. A beautuiful man and teacher. He will be missed.

When I moved here in 1983, Thompson was teaching a course in the current season of the opera and he did so for several years. What a blessing and how innovative! It helped a person who was not a musician hear opera with much more depth. Thompson did not sneer at people like me but brought us along! I was lucky to have run into him in the last year in line at the post office and I was able to tell him how much those courses meant-what an invitation to make opera accessible

Thompson was a joy to all around him. It was my pleasure to work with him on Arts issues and with the Festival of Faiths. Everyone loved his beautiful accent and his kind and gentle demeanor. He gave so much to our community. I hope he knew how much he was loved. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

Thomson served on the board of L'Alliance Francaise de Louisville. His candor was refreshing. It was an honor to sit next to him. His international perspective on the arts (and their funding) made an impression that will always be remembered.

Thomson - you were my dearest friend for nearly five decades. I will miss you more than words can convey. At the same time I will cherish the memory of so many happy and joyous times spent together in various parts of the world, often in the company of your wonderful family. To Marilyn, Jane, Jonathan, Julia and David and their families, I extend my love and my deepest sympathy.