Biography

SSG Richard Thaller, originally from Acton, Massachusetts, graduated from the University of North Texas in 2025 with a degree in Jazz Studies. While attending North Texas, Thaller had the privilege of playing lead trumpet in the renowned One O’Clock Lab Band, performing with artists including Arturo Sandoval, Vincent Herring, Miguel Zenón, Chris Potter, and Allen Vizzutti. During his time in the One O’Clock, Thaller recorded two albums and performed in numerous concerts, including Cancer Blows in 2023 and a performance with the Houston Symphony and Chris Potter in 2024. While at North Texas, he studied with many influential professors including Rob Parton, Rodney Booth, Philip Dizack, Caleb Hudson, Pete Claggett and Miles Roth. These teachers were instrumental in developing Thaller’s stylistic versatility, prowess and passion for a wide range of musical genres. In June 2024, Thaller was selected to play split lead trumpet in the U.S. Army Blues, an element of The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own.” He currently resides in Arlington, VA, and is an active member of the Washington, D.C. music scene.