Tom Gates has been diagnosed with advanced kidney cancer, which has spread to other areas of his body. The course of treatment includes immunotherapy and targeted radiation.

This GoFundMe campaign is here so Tom can focus on healing, because financial stress should never be a part of someone's cancer journey.

This fundraiser is a way for the many people whose lives Tom has touched with his music and teaching, to support him during this difficult time. Any contribution, or simply sharing this page, is deeply appreciated.

Funds will be used to help with ongoing medical treatments and living expenses.

Together we can make a difference.

Cancer cannot cripple Love, it cannot shatter hope, it cannot break the spirit.

Tom Gates has been a professional performer and teacher for more than 40 years. Tom received his B.A. degree in guitar performance from the University of Miami, where he studied jazz guitar with Pat Metheny, and classical guitar with Juan Mercadal. Tom was a founding member of Walt Richardson and The Morningstar Band, a popular fixture on the Phoenix club and concert scene for many years. Tom formed The World Rhythm Band, and as roster artists with the Arizona Commision On The Arts, performed throughout Arizona, bringing a mixture of education and entertainment - "edutainment" to communities with little access to live performances. Career highlights include performing at the Telluride Jazz Festival, receiving a gold record for his performance on the Beach Boys album "Still Cruisin", and recording his album "Comfort Zone" featuring legendary drummer Steve Gadd.

Tom performs, records, and teaches in Phoenix, Arizona.

Tom’s teaching philosophy is - Nothing is Difficult, Just Unfamiliar.

With custom-tailored lesson plans based on the student’s musical goals, lessons are presented in notation and TAB, as well as backing tracks for songs. The student has everything necessary for an immersive and engaging practice experience.

Students will:

• Practice more effectively

• Play their favorite songs with more understanding and enjoyment

• Grow their creativity

• Gain lifelong skills

This approach has proven effective in thousands of lessons with students of all ages.