I joined Local 802 because it has always been a step in my career that I looked forward to. As I progressed through my education, I was so focused on my growth as a musician that I often ignored the administrative responsibilities associated with freelancing. Local 802 provides me with the resources and representation that I need to continue to succeed as a woodwind player in the city. I want to push myself creatively alongside the incredible artists in NYC. I am grateful for the opportunities I have been presented with and look forward to continuing to establish myself as a reliable and versatile woodwind player. I feel incredibly fortunate to have played the low reed chair at Mohegan Sun Arena for one of Aretha Franklin’s last shows. Aretha – and soul music in general – had an incredible impact on my musical life, and it was really special to be able to experience her music from the stage. I have always lived a diverse musical life and have loved every aspect of it. I grew up in Boston and played in a variety of swing bands through high school and early college. I learned a lot about section playing from that music. My teacher taught me about the great bands of the swing era and always had me thinking like a working musician. He encouraged me to learn all the woodwinds and to treat each instrument like it was the only one I play. I am eternally grateful for that advice and thankful for all of the wonderful teachers I have worked with over the years. While attending the Hartt School, I fostered my love of chamber music but was also fortunate to take advantage of the rich music scene in Connecticut, including everything from salsa to musical theatre. I eventually earned a graduate degree in multiple woodwind performance at NYU where I also coached undergraduate chamber ensembles and taught flute and saxophone. I fell in love with the process of improving myself musically and I enjoy the intricacies and rich history of each genre that I study. Music is a unifying source that allows people to inspire others and be inspired at the same time. My primary creative project right now is as the co-artistic director and baritone saxophonist in the Resurgam Quartet. The quartet has worked to bring new music to life through various commissions while remaining dedicated to educational outreach. I believe it is our job to pass music along to the next generation in as many ways as possible in order to keep music thriving! We are excited to be joining the Hartford Symphony next season for a performance of Philip Glass’ concerto for saxophone quartet and orchestra. Along with chamber and theatre work, I work as a sideman for a variety of groups, including salsa bands, big bands and pop projects. I also play bassoon in the Park Avenue Chamber Symphony. I currently teach beginners through undergrads in both classroom and private settings. I also co-curate and serve as the operations manager for the Variousound Sessions, an avant-garde chamber music concert series.

Michael Raposo

raposo130@gmail.com