Madeline Wilks is a passionate and multifaceted bassoonist whose career spans performance, education, and community engagement. She is the Second Bassoonist of the Dearborn Symphony Orchestra, a role that reflects her artistry, precision, and commitment to orchestral excellence. Madeline currently serves as Adjunct Professor of Bassoon at Hope College, where she provides individualized instruction and chamber coaching for undergraduate musicians. She is also pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Bassoon Performance at Michigan State University, where she is earning certificates in Musicology and Higher Education. She holds a Master of Music from the Cleveland Institute of Music and a Bachelor of Music from Michigan State University.
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As a performer, Madeline has appeared with orchestras across the Midwest, including the Kalamazoo, Ann Arbor, Battle Creek, and Saginaw Bay symphonies. Her solo and
chamber performances include numerous premieres and collaborations with living composers. She is a passionate advocate for new music and has commissioned and premiered a range of contemporary works for bassoon, including pieces by Rehmann, Collison, Trentadue, Marcussen, and Fitch. She is also featured as a recording artist in the PBS series "Now Hear This", highlighting her contributions to chamber music and innovative programming.
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An experienced and dedicated educator, Madeline has taught students across all levels through private studios, preparatory programs, and sectional coaching in schools. Her teaching is centered on fostering individual artistry, technical confidence, and a deep understanding of musical context.
In addition to performing and teaching, Madeline is committed to outreach and advocacy. She founded Enriching Lives through Music, a nonprofit focused on bringing live performance to underserved communities, and has served in leadership roles within Michigan State’s Council of Graduate Students. She is also an accomplished reed maker and entrepreneur, producing high-quality, handmade reeds for students and professionals.
Madeline is a member of the International Double Reed Society, the American Federation of Musicians, and continues to build a career that bridges tradition, education, and contemporary expression.