Doug Masek is a renowned classical music artist who has made a significant contribution to the world of music. He was born on August 22, 1959, in Los Angeles, California, and grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a jazz pianist, and his mother was a classical pianist. Doug was exposed to music from a very young age and showed a keen interest in it. Doug started playing the clarinet when he was in the fourth grade. He quickly became proficient in playing the instrument and started taking private lessons. He continued to play the clarinet throughout his school years and was a member of the school band and orchestra. He also played in various community orchestras and ensembles. After graduating from high school, Doug attended the University of Southern California (USC) where he studied music. He received his Bachelor of Music degree in clarinet performance from USC in 1981. He then went on to pursue his Master of Music degree in clarinet performance from the University of Michigan, which he received in 1983. After completing his studies, Doug started his professional career as a clarinetist. He played with various orchestras and ensembles, including the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Pacific Symphony, and the Long Beach Symphony. He also performed as a soloist and chamber musician. One of the highlights of Doug's career was his performance at the Hollywood Bowl in 1985. He was the soloist for Mozart's Clarinet Concerto, which was conducted by Leonard Bernstein. The performance was a huge success, and Doug received critical acclaim for his playing. Doug has also been a member of the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra since 1985. He has performed with the orchestra as a soloist and has also played in the ensemble. He has recorded several albums with the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, including Mozart's Clarinet Concerto, which was released in 1991. In addition to his work as a performer, Doug is also a respected teacher. He has taught at several universities and music schools, including USC, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and the Colburn School of Performing Arts. He has also given masterclasses and workshops around the world. Doug has received several awards and honors throughout his career. In 1986, he was awarded the Coleman Chamber Music Award, which is given to outstanding young musicians. He was also a finalist in the International Clarinet Competition in Munich in 1987. In 1990, Doug was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to study in Germany. He spent a year studying with renowned clarinetist Karl Leister at the Hochschule für Musik in Berlin. This experience had a significant impact on Doug's playing and teaching. Doug continues to perform, teach, and record. He is a member of the faculty at the Colburn School of Performing Arts and is also a Yamaha Performing Artist. He has recorded several albums, including Mozart's Clarinet Concerto, which was re-released in 2019 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its original release. In conclusion, Doug Masek is a highly respected and accomplished classical music artist. He has had a successful career as a performer, teacher, and recording artist. His performances have received critical acclaim, and he has received several awards and honors throughout his career. He continues to inspire and educate young musicians and is a valuable member of the classical music community.

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