William Skeen is a renowned cellist and viola da gamba player who has made a name for himself in the world of classical music. Born in 1960 in Los Angeles, California, Skeen grew up in a family of musicians and was exposed to music from a young age. His father was a jazz pianist and his mother was a classical pianist, and they both encouraged Skeen to pursue music as a career. Skeen began playing the cello at the age of six and quickly showed a natural talent for the instrument. He studied with several renowned cellists, including Lynn Harrell and Ronald Leonard, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Southern California. He then continued his studies at the Juilliard School in New York City, where he earned a Master of Music degree. After completing his studies, Skeen began performing with several prominent orchestras, including the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the New York Philharmonic. He also became a member of the Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra in San Francisco, where he began to develop a passion for early music and the viola da gamba. In addition to his work with orchestras, Skeen has also performed as a soloist and chamber musician. He has collaborated with many notable musicians, including violinist Joshua Bell and pianist Emanuel Ax. He has also performed at several major music festivals, including the Tanglewood Music Festival and the Aspen Music Festival. One of Skeen's most notable performances was his solo debut with the Los Angeles Philharmonic in 1985. He performed the Dvorak Cello Concerto to critical acclaim, and the performance helped to establish him as a rising star in the classical music world. Skeen's work with the Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra has also been a highlight of his career. He has performed with the orchestra for over 30 years and has been a key member in the group's efforts to revive and promote early music. He has recorded several albums with the orchestra, including a critically acclaimed recording of Bach's Brandenburg Concertos. In addition to his work as a performer, Skeen is also a respected teacher and mentor. He has taught at several universities and music schools, including the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and the University of Southern California. He has also served as a mentor to many young musicians, helping to guide them in their careers and encouraging them to pursue their passions. Throughout his career, Skeen has received numerous awards and accolades for his work as a musician. He has been awarded the Avery Fisher Career Grant, the Naumburg Chamber Music Award, and the Grammy Award for Best Small Ensemble Performance. He has also been recognized for his contributions to early music, receiving the Early Music America Laurette Award in 2015. Despite his many accomplishments, Skeen remains humble and dedicated to his craft. He continues to perform and teach, and he is always looking for new ways to explore and expand his musical horizons. His passion for music and his commitment to excellence have made him one of the most respected and admired musicians of his generation.

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