Phillip Kolker has been the principal bassoon with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra since 1972. Over many years, Kolker has been chosen to be the principal bassoon and soloist for a variety of the finest orchestras in the nation.

He has been heard performing on many commercial and radio broadcasts. Kolker has studied music at the Eastman School of Music at the University of Rochester and has been awarded the prestigious Performer’s Certificate. He has been a model performer and teacher of the bassoon on the faculty of the Peabody Conservatory, where he served as Chairman of the Woodwind, Brass, Harp and Percussion Department. He has presented master classes at numerous conservatories including the Curtis Institute, the Eastman School of Music and the Interlocheb National Camp.