Welcome to the UT Oboe Studio!
If you’re a dedicated oboeist considering a major in music, the Natalie L. Haslam College of Music at the University of Tennessee offers a vibrant, high-achieving studio culture you’ll want to explore. Our oboe students pursue excellence in a nurturing, collaborative environment that supports both personal and musical growth.

Academics
As a student in the Double Reed program at UT, you will be part of a group of dedicated musicians committed to developing their musical and educational voice and preparing for a life of music. UT Double Reeds prides ourselves on creative exploration, supportive community, camaraderie and most of all great music making.
Undergraduate Programs
Students in the Oboe Studio may pursue a Bachelor of Music in Music Education, Music Performance, or Theory & Composition.
The Natalie L. Haslam College of Music also offers Bachelor of Arts in Music concentrations, and BA students have the option to take applied lessons as part of a studio experience.
Graduate Programs
Graduate students may pursue a Master of Music in Music Education or Music Performance with oboe as their primary area of study.
Graduate Artist Certificate
Designed for highly accomplished performers seeking to refine their artistry, the Graduate Artist Certificate offers advanced study as a stand-alone program.

Meet Professor Jaren Atherholt
A native of Alaska, Assistant Professor of Oboe Jaren Atherholt has performed to stellar reviews as a featured concerto soloist with the Louisiana Philharmonic, A Far Cry, and the Hamptons Festival of Music. Atherholt served as principal oboist of the Louisiana Philharmonic for eleven seasons and has performed as guest principal oboist with the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, Mineria Orchestra in Mexico City and Detroit Symphony, as well as guest associate principal oboist with the Pittsburgh Symphony and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.


- Respect – respect for our work as artists and musicians, respect for one another, respect for our school, respect for our teachers, respect for those who came before us, respect for our facilities, respect for our colleagues.
- Community – supporting one another as double reed players, musicians, artists, fellow students and citizens.
- Gratitude + Appreciation – consistently fostering an attitude of gratitude for the opportunity to make music and learn along side one another.
- Ambition + Hard Work – showing up every day for our craft, dreaming big, reaching for the stars, and keeping the focus on consistent effort.

Performance Opportunities
Bassoon students at UT have access to a wide range of ensemble experiences. They regularly perform with the UT Wind Ensemble and UT Symphony Orchestra, and a variety of chamber music groups. Students also participate in studio recitals throughout the year.
These opportunities help students grow as versatile performers while developing a strong sense of community and professional artistry.

Interested in the UT Bassoon Studio?
Schedule a Music Major for a Day Experience or Building Tour!
Get a true sense of what it’s like to be a music major at UT! Sit in on classes, attend rehearsals, meet with Professor Atherholt, and tour our beautiful facilities.
Learn How To Apply
Whether you’re applying as a first-time college student, transfer student, or graduate student, admission to the Natalie L. Haslam College of Music is a multi-step process that includes applying to the University of Tennessee and to our college. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Graduate Teaching Assistantships
The Natalie L. Haslam College of Music offers a number of graduate teaching assistantships each academic year.
Assistantships carry a waiver of the university tuition, pays for mandatory university fees, medical coverage, and carries a monthly stipend.