Monica Ellis

Bassoonist Monica Ellis is a founding member of the GRAMMY-nominated wind quintet Imani Winds. In her 23rd season with the ensemble, she serves as Administrative Director, Tour Manager, and Co-Artistic Director of the Imani Winds Chamber Music Festival. A Pittsburgh native, Ellis studied at Oberlin College Conservatory, The Juilliard School, and Manhattan School of Music. Throughout her career, Ellis has performed with prestigious organizations including the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, and as a soloist with the Pittsburgh Symphony. Her extensive recording credits feature seven albums with Imani Winds, as well as collaborations with Wayne Shorter, Chick Corea, and Steve Coleman.
A dedicated educator, she has served on the faculty of The Juilliard School’s Music Advancement Program, Mannes School of Music, and the University of Chicago. Her leadership extends to the boards of the Concert Artists Guild and the Orchestra of St. Luke’s Education Committee. Ellis is a renowned clinician and a role model for the community of African-American classical wind players.