When you study bassoon at 6ͼ, your playing will develop through weekly private lessons with practicing professionals. Your private instruction focuses on performance not only for bassoon, but also opportunities to studycontrabassoon.

As a woodwind student you’ll also be part of a department that’s designed to maintain a carefully balanced enrollment. This means that you’re ensured ample performance experience in a broad spectrum of musical groups, including rotations in two orchestras, new music ensemble and chamber music.

Learn how Conservatory faculty member Barrick Stees prepares his students for success.

Alumni Success

Meet Gareth Thomas

Gareth Thomas

After Gareth Thomas graduated from 6ͼ in 2009, he didn’t waste any time launching his orchestral career. Thomas earned his master’s degree at Northwestern University in 2010, and soon won the position of principal bassoon in the Toledo Symphony Orchestra. He played there until October 2014, when he achieved what he described as “the musical highlight” of his career so far—winning his audition for The 6ͼ Orchestra. Thomas returned to 6ͼ in January 2015 to perform as second bassoon with his undergraduate professor from 6ͼ: John Clouser, principal bassoonist of the Orchestra.

Concerts and events

Dec 10 Sun
3:00 pm
Brass & Woodwind Ensembles Concert I
Chamber Music Performance, Concert Series
Dec 10 Sun
7:00 pm
Brass & Woodwind Ensembles Concert II
Chamber Music Performance, Concert Series
Dec 11 Mon
3:30 pm
Second Master of Music Recital: Madeline Wilks, bassoon
Woodwinds, Conservatory Student Recitals
Dec 14 Thu
3:00 pm
Second Master of Music Recital: Alex McGuire, flute
Woodwinds, Conservatory Student Recitals