Resources for Band Directors
Resources for band directors who want more information for their budding bassoonists!
Upcoming Events:
March 22nd, 2025 - KC Double Reed Day
The first event of its kind, KC Double Reed Day is to offer the opportunity to young interested students to try out the bassoon and oboe, hear instrument demonstrations and purchase music. For band directors, there will be a repair basics class taught by Robert Jordan as well as a methods class refresh course, taught by Mariah Stadel and Jo Darmon.
Visit the KCDRD page for more information, or email Mariah directly at kcbassoonacademy@gmail.com
March 29th, 2025 - Fountain City Bassoon Ensemble
This FREE ensemble is open to all ages and ability levels (including you band directors!!). We have one rehearsal in the morning and the concert in the afternoon. Music appropriate to your level is assigned and sent out beforehand. Please visit the FCBA page for more information and to register!
My preferred fingering chart
The ones in band method books are hit or miss. Dr. David Wells has created this one that in my mind, is a gem and the one I give to all of my students!
I use the "beginner chart" as it doesn't differentiate between flicking and venting, so students learn to just add it to their fingering.
https://davidawells.com/resources/fingering-charts/
Easy Warm-up
Seat Straps
Sweet Pea Bassoon
These high-quality, handmade seat straps are an affordable and durable option! They are made by my friend, Susan, who is a bassoonist and professional seamstress. She has a wide variety of fun patterns for you to choose from that can help bring joy to your students.
She offers both a cup and hook style. I prefer a cup, especially for students, but as long as the bassoon has holes at the bottom for the hook they work just as great!
https://sweetpeabassoon.com/shop-1/ols/products/cup
Swabs
These silk swabs from Hodge Products are a must. They can go through the wing and boot joint, and the silk won't leave any fibers in the instrument, unlike cotton.
Reeds
I sell handmade reeds that are easy to play in tune and have easy response. All of my students play on my reeds and have great success! You can purchase them through my website, www.ravenreeds.com.
You can also support other independent reed makers. Some of my colleagues are listed below:
