Matthew Harvell
Bassoon
Locations
- Remote Lessons
- Lake Bluff, IL
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Professional Associations
Chicago Federation of Musicians, International Double Reed Society
Qualifications
- See Background & Experience
Rate
$85/lesson (may be longer than 1 hour)
Background & Experience
With many years of professional experience as both a performer and a teacher, I’m passionate about sharing my knowledge and helping students at all levels thrive on the bassoon and I have some openings in my bassoon studio which I would like to fill.
Professional Background
I spent 17 years as a tenured member of the Richmond Symphony in Virginia and performed with the Virginia Symphony under JoAnn Falletta, including a season as co-principal bassoon. I’ve had the honor of playing with renowned orchestras such as the National Symphony Orchestra, Toledo Symphony, San Diego Symphony, Roanoke Symphony, Chicago Sinfonietta, and Chicago Philharmonic. Additionally, I enjoyed many seasons as the bassoonist with the Chicago-based International Chamber Artists. I have also performed as a soloist or as a member of an ensemble at several International Double Reed Society conventions.
Teaching Experience
My students have achieved notable success, with recent accomplishments including wins at the MYAC Concerto Competition and Lake Forest College Concerto Competition, as well as scholarships to prestigious institutions like Harvard and Eastman School of Music. I have extensive experience teaching privately and have served on faculty at Lake Forest College and Trinity International University in Illinois, as well as adjunct to the University of Richmond. I have also given masterclasses at institutions such as West Virginia University, Northern Arizona University, and James Madison University.
Teaching Philosophy
My approach to teaching is grounded in a strong tradition, drawing on the influences of my teachers, including Norman Herzberg, Richard Beene, David Sogg, and John Wetherill and those with whom I have coached. I emphasize strong foundational skills, including reed-making from beginner to advanced levels, and provide a curriculum that equips students with the skills needed to succeed in modern orchestral settings.
An Invitation
I would be thrilled to work with your bassoon students or anyone interested in starting on this beautiful instrument—whether they aim to pursue it professionally or for personal enjoyment.
Please feel free to reach out to me via email or by phone at (804) 306-3273. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I might support your students' musical journeys!
Professional Background
I spent 17 years as a tenured member of the Richmond Symphony in Virginia and performed with the Virginia Symphony under JoAnn Falletta, including a season as co-principal bassoon. I’ve had the honor of playing with renowned orchestras such as the National Symphony Orchestra, Toledo Symphony, San Diego Symphony, Roanoke Symphony, Chicago Sinfonietta, and Chicago Philharmonic. Additionally, I enjoyed many seasons as the bassoonist with the Chicago-based International Chamber Artists. I have also performed as a soloist or as a member of an ensemble at several International Double Reed Society conventions.
Teaching Experience
My students have achieved notable success, with recent accomplishments including wins at the MYAC Concerto Competition and Lake Forest College Concerto Competition, as well as scholarships to prestigious institutions like Harvard and Eastman School of Music. I have extensive experience teaching privately and have served on faculty at Lake Forest College and Trinity International University in Illinois, as well as adjunct to the University of Richmond. I have also given masterclasses at institutions such as West Virginia University, Northern Arizona University, and James Madison University.
Teaching Philosophy
My approach to teaching is grounded in a strong tradition, drawing on the influences of my teachers, including Norman Herzberg, Richard Beene, David Sogg, and John Wetherill and those with whom I have coached. I emphasize strong foundational skills, including reed-making from beginner to advanced levels, and provide a curriculum that equips students with the skills needed to succeed in modern orchestral settings.
An Invitation
I would be thrilled to work with your bassoon students or anyone interested in starting on this beautiful instrument—whether they aim to pursue it professionally or for personal enjoyment.
Please feel free to reach out to me via email or by phone at (804) 306-3273. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I might support your students' musical journeys!