Bassoon in the Wild

Serves Norwalk, CT

35244

Hired 25 times

4 employees

26 years in business

$150/hour

5.0

This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, Venmo, and Zelle.

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Credentials

Background Check

Michael Rabinowitz
Completed on 11/12/2023

Introduction

People are amazed to hear bassoon in this type of genre. Usually it is heard in chamber music groups or in the orchestra with limited opportunities to shine as solo instrument. The interaction of the entire group is telepathic. The joy of being able to relate creatively with such a talented and creative group of musicians. The audiences swing with the band and feel that they have experienced something very unique and rewarding.

Q&A

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?

Usually about $100.00 per hour per person including transportation costs.

What is your typical process for working with a new customer?

Discuss the type of music he or she wants for the event. Go over the logistics of the venue, address, where to load in equipment and timing of breaks. Once everything is set I send the customer a contract in writing which they sign. I co-sign and send back.

What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?

I received a BFA in music performance from SUNY at Purchase in the late 70s. After college I spent 2 years busking in Paris, Amsterdam and Scotland entertaining 1000s of fans. This gave me invaluable experience as a performer and expanded my repertoire. My professional musical work continued in the states in Connecticut until I moved to NYC in the mid 80s. Over the past 15 years I have had the good fortune of working as a founding member of The Charles Mingus Orchestra and perform regularly with that group. That involvement along with working and composing for my own quartet Bassoon in the Wild has provided a creative outlet to experiment with the improvisational abilities of the bassoon. Additionally I have been asked to conduct master classes and one on one lessons for bassoonist and oboists that are curious about improvising on their instruments.

How did you get started doing this type of work?

My mother encouraged me to play recorder and piano when I was a child. After hearing and loving jazz as a teenager and switching from clarinet to bassoon in highschool I was basically hooked. From that time onward my mission was to bring bassoon into the world of jazz just as Eric Dolphy had pioneered the bass clarinet in the 50s and 60s.

What types of customers have you worked with?

Concert venues, jazz clubs and jazz festivals.

Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?

Bassoon in the Wild played a series of gig in upstate NY and performed for 600 middle school kids. I thought that they would not be interested but we had them clapping and they really dug the music.

What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?

My trio is more background but with the addition of drums the music will become more dance-able. For those events that want a singer I can include a vocalist as well. This has been successful for wedding when the celebrants are looking to hear the lyric.

What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?

The loudness of the group, where the band will be situated, type of music or certain song selections or music from particular artists (for.ex. Duke Ellington, Frank Sinatra, Charlie Parker, etc.)