Bassoonist Monica Ellis is a founding member of the Grammy-nominated Imani Winds, a trailblazing wind quintet known for innovative programming and global touring. A native of Pittsburgh and daughter of jazz saxophonist Clarence Oden, Ellis began on clarinet and saxophone before discovering the bassoon. She earned degrees from Oberlin Conservatory, The Juilliard School, and Manhattan School of Music, studying with George Sakakeeny and Frank Morelli. As Imani Winds’ administrative director and co-artistic director of their chamber music festival, she plays a vital leadership role. Ellis has recorded extensively and collaborated with artists like Chick Corea, Wayne Shorter, and the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. A passionate educator, she’s taught at Juilliard, the University of Chicago, and others, and gives masterclasses nationwide. She serves on several arts boards, including Concert Artists Guild. Monica lives in Harlem with her son, Oden, and enjoys Jeopardy! and home design.