Woodwinds

Taking Woodwind Lessons

Woodwind players at Duke may take individual lessons on their instrument:

  • Flute (MUSIC 105-1 or MUSIC 205-1)
  • Oboe (MUSIC 105-2 or MUSIC 205-2)
  • Clarinet (MUSIC 105-3 or MUSIC 205-3)
  • Bassoon (MUSIC 105-4 or MUSIC 205-4)
  • Saxophone (MUSIC 105-5 or MUSIC 205-5)
  • Jazz Saxophone (MUSIC 105-6 or MUSIC 205-6)

There are many opportunities for string players in the Wind Symphony, Symphony Orchestra, Duke New Music Ensemble [dnme], and Chamber Music groups. Jazz saxophonists will find exciting opportunities in the Jazz Ensemble.

All lessons and ensembles require an audition, which takes place during the first week of classes.

Auditions

Auditions will be conducted by Verena Mösenbichler-Bryant, director of the Wind Symphony, and Harry Davidson, music director of the Symphony Orchestra, as well as members of the Woodwind faculty (see below). Students wishing to perform in the Jazz Ensemble or take jazz saxophone lessons should audition with John Brown at the time designated for Jazz Ensemble auditions.

Students should prepare approximately 3-4 minutes of music that demonstrate their best playing ability. The student may choose to perform two short examples – one to demonstrate technical proficiency and another featuring tone quality, phrasing and musical sensitivity. Students will be asked to sight-read at the audition. No scales are required.

Faculty

Resources

The Music Library in the Biddle Music Building houses thousands of scores and recordings, as well as online listening resources.

The Biddle Music Building contains 15 practice rooms available to any Duke student. There are additional practice rooms on West Campus.