Emily Mastenbrook (she/they), originally from Kalamazoo, Michigan, is pursuing a Doctor
of Musical Arts in Bassoon Performance with Dr. Muñoz at the University of Missouri–Kansas
City following their tenure with the Sarajevska Filharmonija in Sarajevo, Bosnia and
Herzegovina. They hold a Master of Music in Bassoon Performance from Michigan State
University, where they studied with Professor Michael Kroth, a Graduate Artist Certificate
in Baroque Performance Practice from the University of North Carolina School of the
Arts, and dual Bachelor of Music degrees in Bassoon Performance and Spanish from Western
Michigan University.
As an orchestral musician, Emily has performed throughout the United States, Central
America, and Europe. Prior to beginning doctoral studies, they served as a member
of the Sarajevska Filharmonija. Their orchestral experience also includes performances
with the Grand Rapids Symphony, Lansing Symphony Orchestra, and the Kansas City Symphony,
while continuing to serve as Contrabassoonist with the Traverse City Symphony Orchestra.
An active educator and clinician, Emily has presented clinics in public schools, colleges,
and at the International Double Reed Society Conference. Their teaching and research
center on promoting pain-free, sustainable performance through healthy playing habits,
ergonomic awareness, and injury prevention. Emily is passionate about helping musicians
develop efficient technique, artistic confidence, and lifelong musicianship. Their
areas of expertise include orchestral performance, contrabassoon, instrument repair,
chamber music, and educational outreach.
