[2][3] His primary teachers have included Paul Lansky, Barbara White, Steve Mackey, Elinor Armer, and Eric Ewazen.
Russell has been commissioned by, worked with, and written for ensembles including the San Francisco Symphony, Prism Quartet, Symphony Number One, Empyrian Ensemble, Wild Rumpus, Woodstock Chamber Orchestra, and the JACK Quartet.
[7] Mr. Russell's performance of Debussy's Premiere Rhapsody was noted for giving, “increasing energy, leading to a smashingly tangy conclusion from a lurking opening.
Russell is a real virtuoso with true command over his instrument’s range of expression…”[8] Along with his partner Jeff Anderle, the bass clarinet duo Sqwonk performed in the San Francisco area.
[11] More (Symphony Number One) The Valley Sings: Choral Music by Composers of the Hudson Valley (Kairos) High Art (The Living Earth Show) Stravinsky: Rite of Spring (Imani Winds) (EP)