Renowned Rochester artist Thomas Warfield to hold concert

Warfield, a versatile performer, will showcase his talents alongside a scholarship recipient.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 6:55pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Thomas Warfield, a well-known figure in the Rochester arts community, has a story deeply rooted in the city's cultural landscape. Warfield, the nephew of renowned Eastman School of Music graduate William Warfield, has made significant contributions to both the local and global arts scenes as a singer, composer, pianist, and dancer. After a hip injury ended his dance career, Warfield joined the chorus at New York City Opera and later returned to Rochester to teach dance at the Rochester Institute of Technology's National Technical Institute for the Deaf. Warfield also became president of the William Warfield Foundation, which provides scholarships to Black students studying opera. On Sunday, February 15th, Warfield will perform alongside the newest scholarship recipient and opera great Kiersten Piper Brown at a concert at the Eastman Theatre.

Why it matters

Warfield's story highlights the enduring impact of the arts in Rochester and the importance of preserving cultural legacies. His dedication to teaching and mentoring the next generation of performers, as well as his work with the William Warfield Foundation, demonstrates his commitment to supporting and uplifting the local arts community.

The details

After a successful dance career that took him to New York and around the world, Warfield returned to Rochester to care for his aging parents. He then began teaching dance at the Rochester Institute of Technology's National Technical Institute for the Deaf, learning sign language to better connect with his students. Warfield also became president of the William Warfield Foundation, which provides scholarships to Black students studying opera, continuing the legacy of his renowned uncle.

  • Warfield will perform on Sunday, February 15, 2026 at 4 p.m.

The players

Thomas Warfield

A well-known figure in the Rochester arts community, Warfield is a versatile performer who has made significant contributions as a singer, composer, pianist, and dancer. He is the nephew of renowned Eastman School of Music graduate William Warfield.

Kiersten Piper Brown

An opera great who will be performing alongside Warfield at the upcoming concert.

William Warfield

Warfield's renowned uncle, who was a graduate of the Eastman School of Music.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Did you ever think I don't know how I'm going to teach dance to deaf students? No. That's my mother in me. I never think I can't do something.”

— Thomas Warfield

What’s next

Tickets for the February 15th concert are on sale now on the Eastman Theatre's website.

The takeaway

Thomas Warfield's story is a testament to the enduring power of the arts in Rochester and the importance of preserving cultural legacies. His dedication to teaching, mentoring, and supporting the next generation of performers ensures that the Warfield name and legacy will continue to inspire and uplift the local arts community for years to come.