Michael Harley is a renowned classical music artist who has made a significant contribution to the world of music. He was born in 1971 in the United States and grew up in a family that valued music. His parents were both music teachers, and they encouraged him to pursue his passion for music from a young age. Harley began his musical journey by learning to play the bassoon. He showed a natural talent for the instrument and quickly became proficient. He went on to study music at the University of Michigan, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree. He then continued his studies at the University of Southern California, where he earned a Master of Music degree. After completing his studies, Harley began his professional career as a bassoonist. He quickly gained a reputation as a talented musician and was invited to perform with some of the most prestigious orchestras in the world. He has performed with the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic, among others. In addition to his work as a bassoonist, Harley is also an accomplished chamber musician. He has performed with some of the most renowned chamber music ensembles in the world, including the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and the St. Lawrence String Quartet. He is also a founding member of the 21st Century Consort, a contemporary music ensemble based in Washington, D.C. Harley has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. In 2001, he was awarded the Avery Fisher Career Grant, which is given to outstanding young musicians who show exceptional talent and promise. He has also been a recipient of the Chamber Music America Classical Commissioning Program, which supports the creation of new works by American composers. One of the highlights of Harley's career was his performance of the world premiere of John Harbison's Bassoon Concerto with the Boston Symphony Orchestra in 2005. The concerto was written specifically for Harley, and his performance was widely praised for its technical skill and emotional depth. Harley is also an accomplished educator. He has taught at the University of Michigan, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and the University of South Carolina. He is currently a professor of bassoon at the University of Arizona. In addition to his work as a performer and educator, Harley is also a passionate advocate for contemporary music. He has commissioned and premiered numerous works by contemporary composers, and he has served as the artistic director of the 21st Century Consort since 2013. Overall, Michael Harley is a talented and accomplished musician who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. His technical skill, emotional depth, and passion for contemporary music have earned him a well-deserved reputation as one of the most respected bassoonists of his generation.

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