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Studying Bassoon at Lamont

Bassoon students at Lamont study with internationally renowned bassoonist Martin Kuuskmann, who has performed on the world’s most prestigious stages and contributed to two Grammy-nominated albums with bassoon concertos written especially for him. As a performer and educator, Kuuskmann constantly pushes the boundaries toward new artistic and technical possibilities. Our bassoon studio also takes full advantage of Lamont's diverse performance opportunities, participating in ensembles including symphony orchestra and opera, as well as chamber, world and contemporary groups.

  • Live Audition

    Applicants will preference their top two (2) audition dates for a live audition in Denver on the Lamont application. All auditions are approximately 20 minutes in length. The applicant will choose one of their prepared works to perform. The faculty will choose the second of the prepared works and possibly an additional work as well.

  • Applicants Unable to Travel to Denver

    While Lamont faculty prefer to have applicants audition on campus, those unable to travel to Denver for a live audition may submit an unedited video audition in lieu of the on-campus audition. Recordings received after January 15 will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. This video should be uploaded through the Lamont application.

Audition Requirements

Undergraduate (BM, BA and Minor)

  • All major, and either harmonic OR melodic minor scales, using the complete range of the instrument up to a high B or C depending on the key
  • One etude from Milde Scale or Concert Studies
  • Two complete works from contrasting periods (sonata, concerto or one movement work)
  • Two contrasting orchestral excerpts
  • Knowledge of transpositions/clefs where applicable
  • Sight-reading might be requested

Graduate (MM and Certificate in Performance)

  • All major, and either harmonic OR melodic minor scales, using the complete range of the instrument up to a high B or C depending on the key
  • Two contrasting etudes from Milde Concert Studies
  • Two complete works from contrasting periods; one work must be a concerto and one work must be from the 20th century
  • Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro Overture and one other contrasting orchestral excerpt
  • Knowledge of transposition/clefs where applicable
  • Sight-reading might be requested
  • Artist Diploma: Review requirements

Faculty

 
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Martin Kuuskmann

Martin Kuuskmann

Assistant Professor Bassoon / Chamber Music

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