A master of orchestration with a passion for literature and indigenous musical traditions, Thow produced a series of works featuring unusual instrumental combinations and vivid texts. His Chumash Songs for clarinet, violin, percussion and piano (2000), commissioned by the Ventura Chamber Music Festival, incorporated melodic and rhythmic elements of the Southern California Chumash Indian tribe.
Thow was an expert in orchestration with a deep appreciation for literature and indigenous musical traditions. He composed several works that showcased unique instrumental combinations and poetic texts. His Chumash Songs, written for clarinet, violin, percussion, and piano (commissioned by the Ventura Chamber Music Festival in 2000), incorporated melodic and rhythmic elements from the Southern California Chumash Indian culture.