When pursuing a bassoon position in an orchestra, focus your search on key websites: MUVAC, Musical Chairs, and Vioworld. These platforms are the primary hubs for orchestral job listings. Applying directly through these websites streamlines the process and keeps you informed about upcoming openings. Discover orchestral opportunities efficiently online and elevate your musical career.
The first step in your bassoon journey is finding the right teacher. Ask friends for recommendations or explore online platforms that connect students with teachers. Find out if your school offers in-house lessons for convenience and integrated scheduling. Local music schools offer a comprehensive music education, including ensembles and theory in addition to one-on-one lessons. Advanced players can contact universities or conservatories to find accomplished professionals or aspiring virtuosos for one-on-one instruction. Take advantage of online resources, including questionnaires that match you with suitable teachers and often offer discounted first lessons. Remember, the key is to find an instructor who shares your musical aspirations and will encourage your growth as a skilled bassoonist.
The most popular bassoon makers are Heckel, Püchner, Yamaha, Moosmann, Fox and Mönnig. The Heckel bassoon is considered the most famous, known for its rich sonorous tone, flexibility and great range. Heckel bassoons are also incredibly reliable and can last for decades, however, they are also expensive and hard to find. Other popular brands like Yamaha and Püchner are less expensive and easier to obtain. The cost of bassoons can vary greatly, ranging from €5,000 – €100,000 and rental options are also available.
Bassoons are made from maple wood, typically from Europe. The wood is carefully selected and must be durable and able to be varnished and treated. The instrument is then varnished and stained, which can differ between instrument makers and lead to each instrument being unique. Bassoons have keys, which have been added over time, and are made of nickel silver, coated in sterling silver for durability and aesthetics.
The bassoon is a woodwind instrument, made from wood and belongs to the double-reed family. It is considered the lowest instrument in the woodwind family, able to play the lowest notes compared to other instruments like the flute, clarinet, saxophone, and oboe. The modern bassoon has its origins in the 17th century, where it was developed from the dulzian, a Renaissance wind instrument that also uses a double reed. Martin Hotteterre is credited with pioneering the development of the bassoon during this time period.
