Valerie Curd

I began my musical journey under my grandparent's television set in Los Angeles, California, entranced by Disney's Fantasia, and so my first violin lessons were scheduled. I studied for nearly 6 years before transitioning to woodwind instruments in middle school band programs. By high school, I had firmly committed to the bassoon as my primary instrument. It was the perfect fit after so much exploration, and I spent 4 years scouring YouTube, online forums, and books on the art of bassoonery. I also attended the Bocal Majority Bassoon Camp help at Pepperdine University, where I studied bassoon, reed making, and collaborative musicianship. This opportunity gave me the tools I needed to facilitate efficient and effective self-education early on. That dedication combined with a very effective high school music education made me a competitive student, winning positions in Southern California Band and Orchestra Association honor bands and performance festivals. 

I then began a Bachelor of Music degree in Bassoon Performance at San Diego State University, studying under Valentin Martchev, principal bassoon of the San Diego Symphony. These were critical years spent improving my technical understanding of the bassoon. My diligence and commitment to improvement won me several scholarships, as well as the position of principal bassoon for both the San Diego State Symphony Orchestra and Wind Symphony for the entirety of my studies there. I also took competitive coursework in music theory, studying in graduate seminars with Dr. Andrew Aziz on 19th/20th century music as well as sonata form analysis. This coursework significantly contributed to a greater understanding of classical music across time periods, and propelled me into graduate studies.

I began my Master of Music in Bassoon Performance in fall of 2020. Under the direction of Nancy Goeres, I was able to transform my musicianship from mere proficiency to invigorating artistry. My graduate studies have also offered me the opportunity to study Alexander Technique, chamber music, and classical music in the modern world at large. I feel my experiences studying amidst the pandemic offered me the knowledge and insight to be a dependable but flexible musician in a changing world. As the world began to permit gatherings, I found a voice in school as well as community groups such as the Horizons Ensemble, directed by conductor Julian Gau. Chamber settings like these offered me the opportunity to explore the role of the bassoonist beyond the symphony orchestra, which brings me to the present. As a graduate, I continue to freelance, teach privately, and contribute to community music education and appreciation.