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June 2-8, 2025

The NewBassoon Institute

Appalachian State University | Boone, NC
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A week-long immersion in
contemporary bassoon performance

The NewBassoon Institute is a collaborative and inclusive summer workshop dedicated to the world of contemporary music—whether you're a seasoned new music practitioner or learning your first multiphonics.

Workshops

Learn essential contemporary performance skills in hands-on workshops on extended techniques, electronic music, improvisation, peak performance, and more.

Private Lessons

Get one-on-one mentorship from leading performers and teachers of contemporary bassoon music: Rachael Elliott, Mike Harley, Lynn Hileman, and David Wells.

Masterclasses

Perform for faculty and fellow students and get coaching on the pieces and techniques you most want to explore.

Performances

Go beyond traditional venues to perform solo, chamber, and large ensemble works in pubs and public spaces, as well as the recital hall.

2025 theme

minimalism /
maximalism

This summer, we’ll explore the range of contemporary bassoon music through the lens of two defining movements of 20th and 21st century music: minimalism and maximalism.

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featured work

Brad Balliett's Arboretum

Join us as we head to the woods for a NewBassoon tradition—performing Brad Balliett’s Arboretum.  

Alumni experiences

"I was inspired at every performance I attended to become the very best bassoonist I could imagine. I now believe in the expressive power of properly mastered extended techniques, which is for me an endless invitation to discovery."
—Tia Wortham, Co-Principal Bassoon, US Navy Band
"I remember coming home from the NewBassoon Institute and realizing it had changed the way I played ‘classical’ pieces. I was playing like a beast. Get ready to be impressed by what comes out of your horn post-institute. You’ll be amazed."
—Emily Mastenbrook, Sarajevo Philharmonic
“The NewBassoon Institute was one of the highlights of my summer! The opportunity to work with such skilled artists who have a specialty in contemporary music is something you really can’t find anywhere else, particularly for bassoon! I highly recommend it.”

—Dan Wolfe, 2018/2019 American Prize winner, instrumental music