Mathieu Harel has been Associate Principal Bassoon of the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal since 1998. After beginning his studies at the Conservatoire de musique de Montréal, he continued his training at the prestigious Curtis Institute in Philadelphia under Bernard Garfield. He has also held positions with the Orchestre symphonique de Québec and the Grant Park Music Festival in Chicago. He has been teaching at the Conservatoire de musique de Montréal since 2004, and has also trained students at McGill University, the Domaine Forget, and the National Youth Orchestra of Canada. Recognized as one of the finest bassoonists of his generation, he has performed as a soloist with several orchestras across Canada. His elegant playing and warm personality also make him a sought-after chamber musician.