Michael Rusinek is currently the principal clarinetist of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, teaches clarinet and chamber music at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, and teaches clarinet at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. Born in Toronto, Canada, his early studies were with Avrahm Galper at the Royal Conservatory of Music. He later attended The Curtis Institute of Music, studying with Donald Montanaro. He has served as assistant principal clarinet with the National Symphony Orchestra in Washington, D.C., performed as principal clarinet with the Orchestras of Philadelphia, St. Louis, The Royal Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, and National Arts Center in Ottawa, Canada, as a soloist with many orchestras, and as a recitalist with the Czech Philharmonic, Concerto Classic Wien, Toronto Symphony, Belgrade Philharmonic, Grand Teton Music Festival Orchestra, Aspen Chamber Symphony, and the Symphony Orchestra of The Curtis Institute of Music. He returns regularly to the Grand Teton, Santa Fe Chamber, and Marlboro music festivals. He served on the faculty of the Canton International Summer Music Academy in Canton, China for its inaugural season. He served on the jury for the inaugural Jacques Lancelot International Clarinet Competition in Rouen, France. Mr. Rusinek is proud of his association with Selmer Clarinets and Rico Reeds.