Q: What should I bring?

A: You should bring your instrument, anything you need to play (extra reeds, water, straps, etc), double reed choir music, and all your double reed friends. Of course, having a bassoon or oboe is not a requirement - you can still observe all the sessions and try out some instruments brought by our vendors.

Q: Who should attend?

A: Bassoonists and oboists of all ages, experience levels, and backgrounds! We will offer classes for all experience levels and this is an event to celebrate all things double reed! We also suggest that band and orchestra teachers of all levels should come to learn more pedagogical techniques for double reeds.

Q: How do I register?

A: Fill out the registration form above. To ensure correct t-shirt sizing, please register no later than October 6th.

Q: I missed the registration deadline, can I still come?

A: Of course! We will accept late and day-of registrations with an additional $15 cost ($65 total for individuals). In order to avoid the late fee and guarantee a correctly sized t-shirt, please register by Friday, October 6th.

Q: Do I need to pack a lunch?

A: No! Lunch is included in the cost.

Q: I want to play in a master class, how can I?

A: In the registration form, it lists the master classes you can request to play in. An email will be going out later asking about what materials you are planning on preparing for the master class. We will notify you if you are selected to play for that master class. Due to limited time, you might not get the opportunity to play in all the sessions you request. There will be some workshops where the sign-up will be in the room before the class starts and will be on a first come first served basis. Clinicians will do their best to hear as many students as possible. We will also have lists for master classes posted on the day of the event, so come ready to play!

Q: How do I attend a clinic?

A: Clinics will be held in rooms throughout Bennett Gordon Hall. All you have to do is go to the room of the clinic you'd like to attend! And don't forget your instrument if it's a playing class!

Q: How late will Chicago Double Reed Festival go?

A: The last clinics will wrap up around 2:30 PM. There will be a Faculty Recital starting at 4:00 pm.

Q: Do I Have to Stay the Whole Day?

A: You do not have to stay the whole day but it is highly encouraged!

Q: Can I attend the 4:00 pm Faculty Recital even if I'm not a registered participant in the festival?

A: Absolutely! Parents and guests are more than welcome to attend the 4:00 pm recital at no cost.

Q: I am in the market for a new bassoon or oboe, do you have any places you recommend?

A: We will have vendors at the festival with booths set up where you can try their instruments, accessories, etc. Check out the front page for more information on who will be there!

Q: Where will the Chicago Double Reed Festival be?

A: The Festival will take place at Bennett Gordon Hall at Ravinia Festival in Highland Park. See our Directions page for detailed instructions on how to get there!

Q: Can I observe the festival without actively participating in any of the sessions?

A: Yes - on the day of the festival, people who wish to observe (but not participate) in any sessions can pay a $40 Observer Fee. They will not be able to participate in Master Classes or Technique sessions, for example, but they would be able to watch classes and performances.

Q: Do I have to pay for parking?

A: No!

Q: You still haven't answered my question - Who should I get in touch with?

A: Any additional questions, please email Kenni Ther (kenni@mya.org) or call Midwest Young Artists at 847-926-9898.