Mr. Thornton is a band director and music educator, specializing in music for wind bands and jazz ensembles.  Mr. Thornton has been directing bands and jazz ensembles since 2000, when he became band director at Madison Middle School in Trumbull, CT.  His music background includes specialization as a conductor, saxophonist, and teacher, with additional interest in the areas of jazz, band literature, music history and theory, and piano. 

Rob Thornton was nominated Teacher of the Year at Madison Middle School, Trumbull, CT in 2012.  His responsibilities include directing three concert bands and a select jazz ensemble; under his direction his groups have consistently earned superior ratings at music festivals, including performances of some of the more demanding literature playable by this age group.  His teaching duties include instructing band students in classes of woodwinds, brass, and percussion, as well as in full ensembles, and preparing them for performances in concerts and events as well as marching in the town's Memorial Day parades. In addition to his work as a middle school band director, Rob has past experience working on staff with the Trumbull High School Golden Eagle Marching Band, and also conducts the Advanced Band (grades 8-12) at Trumbull's Summer Music Camp.

Rob earned his Bachelors' degree in Music Education at the Hartt School of Music, and went on to earn his Master's degree in Music Education from Central Connecticut State University, with an emphasis in conducting.  Professional organizations include NAfME, CMEA, and Phi Mu Alpha.  

Rob has been actively involved in the Western Regional middle school festivals over the years, supporting his students through the audition process and festival participation, collaborating with the directors, and helping out as needed with the festival events, wind sectionals, supervision, and logistics.  Mr. Thornton also served on CMEA’s executive board, as Western Region Co-Director (2017 to 2022).