Joseph Merchant completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music under the tutelage of William Winstead. He then received a Master’s Degree while studying with Richard Beene. Prior to collegiate studies, Joseph was a student of Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra bassoonist David Sogg. Continuing through recent years, Joseph has had the privilege of performing with symphony orchestras across the country, including the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, San Diego Symphony, and West Virginia Symphony. He also spent multiple summers as a fellow at the Tanglewood Music Center and the Aspen Music Festival and School as a student of Nancy Goeres. Most recently, Joseph followed his childhood dreams of becoming a school bus driver for his alma mater in Pittsburgh, PA. He has also acquired a wealth of knowledge regarding FEMA flood insurance rate maps. When not engaging in musical or bus-related activities, he can be found taking walks, tending to his aquariums, or deciding on another hobby.