John Kinyon's Basic Training Course, Book 2: Bassoon Book

Kinyon's sequencing approach treats bassoonists as full band members from the start, never making them feel like an afterthought. The method balances individual technical development with ensemble integration, so your bassoon section develops confidence and intonation in context rather than in isolation.

Solid, sensible progress that respects the bassoon's natural character. You'll find clear melodic lines and ensemble moments that acknowledge the instrument's dual nature as both a foundation player and a voice that can carry a real musical idea.

Beginning bassoonists in Band 2 level classes and first-year private students who are ready to build beyond foundational technique. This book works equally well in a section setting or one-on-one instruction, making it ideal for mixed rehearsal models.

• Establish a steady air stream before tackling the reed; the bassoon's tone depends on consistent support, not tongue or embouchure manipulation alone.
• Coordinate fingering changes with air continuity in passages that move between registers; students often interrupt the air stream during awkward fingerings, creating tone breaks.
• Maintain uniform posture and hand position across both hands; asymmetrical tension in the upper hand will create intonation problems that worsen as the student progresses.

Sequence this alongside your band's first concert of the year so your bassoonists are learning in real rehearsal contexts. As they advance through Book 2, they'll be genuinely ready to contribute to early-season concert repertoire rather than sitting through full rehearsals as passengers.

• Reading treble and bass clefs with fluency
• Consistent tone production across registers
• Intonation matching with other band members
• Fingering accuracy in passages that require hand position shifts
• Breath control and phrasing over longer musical lines
• Ensemble balance and listening awareness