Hometown:
Superior, Colorado
Education:
University of South Carolina, Bachelor of Music (2022)
Eastman School of Music, Master of Music (2024)
Bio:
Bassoonist Avery Dabe is a regular substitute with the Charleston Symphony and joins the Spoleto Festival USA Orchestra for their 2026 season. Previously second bassoon of the New Mexico Philharmonic, he has performed with the Utah, Phoenix, and Anchorage Symphonies. He served as principal bassoon for the 2025 Olga Kern International Piano Competition and in productions with Opera Southwest, Aspen Opera Theater, and the Holy City Lyric Opera.
What inspired you to become a musician?
I come from a non-musical family and never had the experience of hearing a professional orchestra during my childhood. I first developed an interest in studying music during high school when I played in an honor band conducted by Anthony Parnther. At that time, Parnther was a major Los Angeles studio freelancer who helped create the soundtracks to many of my favorite movies and games.
Name your favorite composers and/or pieces:
The Kleiber recording of Johan Strauss’ Fledermaus overture, it reminds me of the joy and excitement I’ve felt with my best friends. My runner up pick would be the Szell Cleveland Orchestra Brahms 3rd Symphony recording.
What is an interesting fact about you and/or your instrument?
One of my hobbies is collecting information on bassoons from a German instrument maker, Wilhelm Heckel. I love the history of the company and operate a fan database called heckeldex.org. My instrument is an 8000 series Heckel bassoon finished in 1938.
When taking a break from music-making, what is your favorite thing to do?
I’ve always had a fascination with freshwater aquariums and I maintained a successful neocaridina shrimp tank throughout grad school.
Why did you choose the NRO?
I feel that I defy the stereotype of an ambitious festival student as I have struggled with confidence and musical identity throughout my life. Only in the past year have I learned to treat myself with compassion, allowing me to finally enjoy life as a performer. This journey toward pursuing artistic gratification is what led me to choose the National Repertory Orchestra. I also have to credit my friend and NRO bassoon alumnus Aaron Nealy, who encouraged me to attend in place of other significant performance opportunities available to me this summer.