Bassoon students at Lamont study with internationally renowned, multiple Grammy-nominated bassoonist Martin Kuuskmann. Prof. Kuuskmann is one of the most sought-after bassoonists on the classical music scene. He has been featured as a soloist and recording artist with the New York and London Philharmonics, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, MDR Leipzig Radio Symphony Orchestra, and many others.
Our bassoon studio 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.
Applicants may choose to either audition in person in Denver OR submit a recorded video audition and complete a Zoom interview.
Applications received after January 15 will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. You may indicate your preference for a live or virtual audition on the Lamont application.
Click here to view the current year’s audition/interview dates and the full steps for how to apply.
All auditions are approximately 15 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.
Undergraduate (BM, BA and Minor)
One major and one minor scale (harmonic or melodic), 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)
One major and one minor scale (harmonic or melodic), 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
Applicants unable to travel to Denver for a live audition may submit a video audition via the Lamont application AND will complete a live Zoom interview. Repertoire may be recorded separately in multiple takes; editing within each take is prohibited.
The 10-minute interview will consist of a Q&A only. You will not be asked to perform.
Undergraduate (BM, BA and Minor)
One major and one minor scale (harmonic or melodic), 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)
One major and one minor scale (harmonic or melodic), 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
Go to the graduate admission application to submit your information. For information on admission requirements, visit the graduate academic programs page and locate your program of interest.
