Thome and Frank Zappa met in 1980 through their involvement in a Varèse tribute. They discovered a shared musical and artistic philosophy and continued to work together until Zappa’s untimely death last year. The pinnacle of their collaboration was Zappa’s Universe, a four-night performance at New York City’s Ritz Theatre, in November 1991, for which Thome was the artistic director, arranger, and conductor. The project was a celebration of Zappa’s 50th birthday and the 25th anniversary of his first recording, Freak Out!, and excerpts of the performances are preserved on CD, cassette, and video as Zappa’s Universe (Verve Records). “Sofa,” a piece from the album featuring guitarist Steve Vai on Thome’s arrangement, received a Grammy this year for best rock instrumental. (read more)