Claire Taylor

Claire Taylor is an Adjunct Professor in the School of Music at Millikin University, where she teaches bassoon, music theory, and coaches ensembles. She maintains an active career as a performer and entrepreneur, serving as Music Director at First Presbyterian Church and operating Claire Taylor Woodwind Repair. Her professional engagements include principal/guest roles with multiple symphony orchestras and jazz ensembles across Central Illinois.

Her academic background includes:

• Undergraduate degrees in Music Performance and Biology from Butler University
• Master's in Bassoon Performance and Literature from the University of Illinois (2017)

Professor Taylor's research and performance interests span bassoon technique, music pedagogy, jazz improvisation, woodwind instrument versatility, and ensemble dynamics. Her work bridges classical training with contemporary performance applications.

As an active performer, she holds leadership positions with:

• Millikin-Decatur Symphony Orchestra (Principal Bassoon)
• Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra (Second Bassoon)
• Guest performer with Heartland, Peoria, and Illinois Symphonies
• Jazz ensembles including Decatur Big Band, Moroccan Soul, and the Claire Taylor Trio
• Theater productions including the national tour of Chicago and Celebrity Cruise Lines