Welcome to the UT Bassoon Studio!

If you’re a dedicated bassoonist 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 bassoon students pursue excellence in a nurturing, collaborative environment that supports both personal and musical growth.

Girl holding a bassoon on stage.

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 Bassoon 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 tuba/euphonium 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.

Man smiling holding bassoon.

Meet Professor Ryan Yamashiro

Ryan Yamashiro is a graduate of the Cleveland Institute of Music, in Cleveland, Ohio, where he received a Master of Music Degree in 2019 studying with Barrick Stees. He received his Bachelor’s Degree of Art in Music Performance in the spring of 2017 from UCLA where he studied with John Steinmetz. Ryan has played with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, Toledo Symphony, Billings Symphony Orchestra, and Battle Creek Symphony. 

Studio Values

  • 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.

Group of students sitting on a staircase holding oboes and bassoons.


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 Yamashiro, 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.