I first became aware of Thomas and his music when I was a jazz programmer at WRUW-FM in Cleveland (which is Case Western Reserve University's college station). Probably around the time the initial Thomas Chapin Trio Knitting Factory Works CDs came out. I had a weekly show from '80 to '94.
I also had a chance to meet him when I helped out on a Thomas Chapin Trio concert the station presented at the Bop Stop, which was at that time, a small jazz club on the east side of Cleveland (East 40th and St. Clair). The date was October 17, 1993. The show was terrific and we had great attendance with a very enthusiastic and appreciative audience. Thomas was very friendly. It was great to meet all three of them.
I've attached a review of the concert, which I think was published in the NOJS (Northeast Ohio Jazz Society) Newsletter in November of '93.
--Don Sebian, Cleveland, OH