Christine Breeden is an active bassoonist and contrabassoonist based in Chicago, Illinois.  Originally from Normal, Illinois, she began her bassoon studies at age 12 with Professor Michael Dicker at Illinois State University.  Her love for music led her to study Bassoon Performance with Professor Timothy McGovern at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.  In addition to playing in several of the university’s orchestras, bands, and chamber groups, she frequently freelanced with orchestras across the state.  As a junior, she won the Smith Solo Competition, and was a recipient of the School of Music Woodwind Achievement Award.  

Following her graduation from Illinois in 2022, Christine began studying for her Master's in Bassoon Performance at the University of Michigan, where she studiee with Dr. Jeffrey Lyman and graduated in May of 2024.  Her ensemble experiences at Michigan included the University Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Band, Concert Band, Contemporary Directions Ensemble, and various chamber ensembles.  Her recent coursework and accompanying field experiences in performance, education, and arts administration have solidified her passion and furthered her understanding of music's role in the world, as well as its potential for shaping a more inclusive, sustainable, creative, and healthy society.