In order to play the bassoon well (or any instrument) one needs first to build a strong foundation by devoting considerable time to fundamentals. It all begins with an instrument in good working order and a reed that can handle whatever you demand from it (easier said than done!). Reed making and adjusting are essential skills for all bassoonists, and I teach these skills to best fit the student’s needs. Next comes diligent work on long tones, scales, intervals, and etudes. Solo repertoire and preparing for performances and auditions come last. Reed function goes hand in hand with fundamental work. I encourage students to listen to good recordings and attend as many live performances as they can so that they can be inspired to play beautifully.

Sam began teaching private students in his hometown of Missoula, MT, during college. He currently teaches talented young bassoonists and coaches chamber music at the Boston University Tanglewood Institute, and assists students of all levels, as well as professionals, with reed making. Sam’s primary mentors have included Roger McDonald and Richard Beene, and he has also been a frequent attendee at the Tanglewood masterclasses of the Boston Symphony bassoon section.

As a member of the acclaimed wind quintet Vento Chiaro, Sam has performed recitals throughout New England. Additional engagements include with the Toledo Symphony, Colorado Symphony, Boston Philharmonic, Boston Pops, Odyssey Opera, Emmanuel Music Bach Cantata Series, and Marsh Chapel Collegium.

BM, University of Montana; Graduate studies, University of Michigan