Sam is an accomplished bassoonist and educator with a diverse background in performance and teaching. His educational journey began in his hometown of Missoula, MT, where he started teaching private students during college. He has since expanded his teaching portfolio to include coaching talented young bassoonists and chamber music at the prestigious Boston University Tanglewood Institute.

As an educator, Sam’s expertise extends beyond performance techniques to include specialized skills such as reed making, where he assists students of all levels, including professionals. His teaching approach has been shaped by mentors like Roger McDonald and Richard Beene, as well as through frequent attendance at masterclasses led by the Boston Symphony bassoon section at Tanglewood.

Sam’s performance career is equally impressive. As a member of the acclaimed wind quintet Vento Chiaro, he has performed recitals throughout New England. His orchestral experience includes engagements with notable ensembles such as the Toledo Symphony, Colorado Symphony, Boston Philharmonic, and Boston Pops. Sam has also contributed his talents to Odyssey Opera and participated in the Emmanuel Music Bach Cantata Series and Marsh Chapel Collegium.

Through his dual roles as performer and educator, Sam brings a wealth of practical experience and artistic insight to his teaching, helping to nurture the next generation of bassoonists while maintaining an active presence in the professional music scene.