For ten years, Thurmond was a member of the Vermont Philharmonic Orchestra located in Barre, Vermont. He performed with the Chandler String Quartet for almost 10 years, and then with Wynden Strings Trio, with harpist Jenny Mayor and flutist Sarah Elizabeth Kinsley. Former principal cellist of the Richie Community Orchestra on Florida's west coast, and former principal cellist of Newport Area Community Orchestra, he presently plays as principal cellist in NEKCO community orchestra the Northeast Kingdom ,performing at the Vermont State University, Lyndon Campus. He also performs as a soloist with piano accompanist Catherine MacMaster.