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Bassoon Studio
Guidelines
Dr. Arnold Irchai,
Assistant Professor
University of Florida School of Music
UMA 300C
(352) 392-9376 (studio)
irchai@ufl.edu
Office Hours: As posted, and by appointment
“Life
is like music, it must be composed by ear, feeling and instinct, not by
rule. Nevertheless one had better know the rules, for they sometimes
guide in doubtful cases, though not often.”
Samuel Butler (1612-80), English poet
Study Goals
By the end of their studies, students are expected to be ready for a
professional career in performance and/or education. Bassoon studies
for all student majors consist of four formal elements: individual
lessons, studio class, sight-reading class, and reed-making class.
Individual Lessons
One weekly individual lesson is mandatory for each studio member. Each
and every performance major student is also encouraged to schedule a
supplementary private lesson on a weekly basis. The individual lessons
are the major component of bassoon studies at UF. At the first few
lessons, each student’s individual study plan is developed, providing
students with the opportunity to focus on various aspects of bassoon
performance, including tone development, technique, interpretation and
style, based on their own proficiency level. Students are expected to
come to the lessons well prepared so that the actual lesson time could
be spent in the most efficient and productive way. Lack of time is NO
excuse.
Weekly Bassoon Studio Class
A Studio Class shall consist of bi-weekly individual performances by
each student, followed by a studio-wide critique of the performance;
ensemble playing, listening to recordings, and recording reviews. This
class also provides a forum for graduate students to develop teaching
skills. Study of vast bassoon literature is also a part of this class.
Students are strongly encouraged to bring their own ideas for the
studio class to the instructor.
Reed Making Class
A special class is devoted to bassoon reed making. The class is also
held weekly. It is designed to provide students with opportunities to
master reed making skills, including shape, size, dimensions, methods,
techniques, and materials. This is also a time for the students to
share their knowledge and ideas. Bassoon maintenance and repair
techniques are also a part of this class. Students are expected to have
all necessary supplies and tools at each read making class.
Sight-Reading Class
This class will offer insight into developing good sight-reading
skills. Specific orchestra parts are included in the study. To better
prepare bassoon students for a professional performance career, a mock
orchestra audition shall take place, at least, twice a year. The class
meets weekly.
Performances
Performance requirements are based on a particular level of the
student’s study (see Undergraduate Student Handbook – The School of
Music). The performance may be on a Woodwind Area Recital, Convocation,
or Studio Class Recital. Woodwind Area Recital dates will be determined
by the faculty and will be distributed as early in the semester as
possible. The instructor will determine recital performance assignments
with input from the student at the beginning of the semester.
Accompanists
It is the student’s responsibility to secure an accompanist for all
performances, as well as particular repertoire studied in lessons. The
student should schedule necessary rehearsal time with the accompanist
in advance and should be prepared to bring the accompanist to at least
two lessons before a scheduled public performance.
Jury/Final Examination
Except for students taking their first semester of lessons at the 1000
level, all bassoon students are required to play a jury at the end of
each semester. The jury is a comprehensive evaluation of the progress
the student has made throughout the semester. Jury procedure will be
determined by the faculty and will be distributed as early in the
semester as possible.
Ensemble Participation
All students enrolled in applied bassoon study are required to audition
for and perform in a major School of Music performing ensembles,
including but not limited to, symphony orchestra, symphonic band, and
wind symphony each semester as assigned.
Attendance Policy
Attendance at individual lessons, studio class, sight reading class and
reed class is mandatory. In addition, bassoon students are required to
attend all bassoon-related activities, which include ALL bassoon
recitals, woodwind area recitals, and convocations on which a bassoon
student or the instructor is performing. If a student is ill for any of
these activities, it is his/her responsibility to notify the
instructor. The instructor will make every effort to reschedule a
lesson. Lessons missed for unexcused absences will not be made up and
will negatively impact the final grade. If it is necessary to miss a
scheduled bassoon activity for reasons other than illness, the student
must notify the instructor in advance. The student’s absence will be
excused at the discretion of the instructor. The only exceptions to
these policies are for illness or emergency. Occasionally, the
instructor may have to miss a lesson because of a professional
obligation. The instructor will notify the student in advance and will
make every effort to reschedule the lesson prior to the absence, at the
convenience of both the student and instructor. Tardiness is not
acceptable except in extreme extenuating circumstances.
Grading Policy
Grades will be determined based on preparation and performance of
lesson material including consistent reed making, public performance,
jury, class participation, attitude, and attendance. Each component of
the final grade will be weighted as follows:
| Scales |
15% |
| Studies |
15% |
| Music |
20 |
| Jury at the end of the semester and recitals |
50% |
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