Marie Bennett

A native of the south side of Chicago, Marie Bennett holds a bachelor’s degree from Northwestern University and a master’s degree from DePaul University, bothin flute performance. A versatile performer, Marie can be heard on recordings by GIA Publications, and performs regularly with regional orchestras such as the Illinois and Rockford Symphony Orchestras. An active chamber musician, Marie performs regularly with several groups ofwhich she is a founding member, including MKD Trio, a flute, violin, and cello trio; and Kaleidoscope, a flute, oboe, and piano trio. As an enthusiasticfreelancer, Marie plays in pit orchestras for musicals, and with various other chamber groups in freelance settings. She is also an active liturgical musician.

Marie frequently engages with composers and has premiered several works, and is actively working on several commissions for contrabass flute. Marie has performed around the country on her contrabass – named Tinkerbell – in addition to her other work with low flutes, including alto and bass flute. Marie and Tinkerbell perform with the International Superflutes Collective, a professional ensemble based in Europe, and with the West Suburban Flute Orchestra, the largest flute orchestra in the United States, founded by anElmhurst University alumnus.

A passionate educator, Marie is on faculty at Elmhurst University, Aurora University, and College of DuPage, where she teaches flute lessons, music theory, and directs flute ensembles. She also maintains a private studio, presents masterclasses and clinics, and frequently adjudicates festivals and competitions.