Should I play Bassoon or Viola?

I am looking for a new private teacher (My last one was for viola) and I was wondering which instrument do you think I should focus on (your post help, but i'm the one deciding this, not you) I intend to work in an orchestra after college and I'm a novice at both instruments (I can play two octaves on bassoon and I can shift into and out of 4 position regularly) . Another thing to note is that there is not a communinty orchestra in the area so I'm practicing by myself on Viola however, I can play Bassoon in my schools band.





I really like both Bassoon for its versatility and sound across all register, and Viola for its expressiveness and the ability to play both Violin and Cello music.

Should I play Bassoon or Viola?
I think doing both, as suggested by several others, would be very good. However, there are a couple of things to consider. First, I would think that there would be more orchestra positions available for violists thus giving you a better chance at finding a place to play. But, it seems in your present circumstances that you would be able to gain more ensemble playing experience and instruction by going with the bassoon. And remember, working on two makes greater demands on your practice time.





A good idea would be to talk with your school director. Also when you reach the college level there will be opportunities to play both in various ensembles which will help you decide on which one (or both) you wish to concentrate. It is a demanding path but some people choose to pursue a double concentration or major.





Best of luck to you.





Musician, composer, teacher.
Reply:Why not play both ? They are both lovely instruments but I would prefer the viola.


The viola is my favourite instrument.





I think there would be more work for you as a viola player .
Reply:I would play both...there aren't that many violists or bassoonists...if I could I would play both..
Reply:I would play the Bassoon ... I think it suits you





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Reply:You should focus on bassoon. If that's the one you can play more often, like at your school's band, then you should focus on that one. UNLESS you are much better at one than the other, or you like one much better. also, don't completely give up whichever one you don't focus on. ; )
Reply:Bassoon. It's more marketable. Besides, when's the last time you heard a bassoon joke?





OTOH, the viola repertoire is better music than the bassoon repertoire.
Reply:viola is definatly the better instrument to play


it might be harder .... but you will learn how to play it properly and it has a beautiful sound! am sure you are capable of doing it!


otherwise if you want to play the basoon its easier and you can play fun pieces


but there is more repertoire on the viola


at the end of the day its your choice


good luck am sure you will do well on whatever you choose
Reply:Given the choice between those two I'd go with the the bassoon.
Reply:Bassoon players are generally harder to come by, at least as far as I can tell, so you're more likely to get more gigs if you're a good bassoonist. If an orchestra is short a few violas usually there are violin players who can double, but an orchestra short on bassoons is S.O.L. until someone comes along. So I'd say Bassoon.