Bassoon Concerto No. 2 ''Leonardo'': Concerti

Bingham's second bassoon concerto gives the instrument genuine solo weight while maintaining clear, idiomatic writing that sits well under the hands. The ''Leonardo'' subtitle suggests a work with intellectual substance and tonal sophistication. For directors seeking a contemporary concerto that balances technical display with musical integrity, this piece rewards both performer and audience.

A thoughtfully constructed concerto that treats the bassoon as a sophisticated melodic voice. The work balances lyrical invention with contemporary harmonic textures, creating an introspective yet assured musical journey.

Advanced bassoon soloists preparing a contemporary concerto for recital or competition. This work suits musicians comfortable with modern harmonic language and looking to expand their solo repertoire beyond Baroque and Romantic standards.

• Study the orchestral reduction carefully before rehearsing with accompaniment; Bingham's harmonic language requires secure intonation and clear voice leading from the soloist.
• Balance lyrical passages with moments of technical brilliance; the concerto form here likely contains both intimate and virtuosic sections that demand different physical and musical approaches.
• Attend to articulation choices in the original score; contemporary concertos often use articulation as a primary expressive tool rather than relying on dynamic extremes alone.

Feature this concerto as a centerpiece in a solo recital that pairs contemporary writing with classical or Romantic repertoire. It also works well in a concert program exploring 20th and 21st century wind writing, offering contrast to more experimental approaches.

• Sustaining long-line singing through complex harmonic environments
• Balancing solo projection with accompaniment in a concerto setting
• Interpreting contemporary notation and compositional intent
• Intonation adjustment in non-traditional harmonic contexts