DRN Archive
The Double Reed News (DRN) Archive is a rich collection of articles, interviews, reviews, and updates from the oboe and bassoon world. Whether you're a player, teacher, or enthusiast, the archive offers invaluable resources to support and celebrate the double reed community.
To explore the full archive, you must be a BDRS member. If you're not a member yet, you can sign up here and enjoy exclusive access to the DRN archive and many other benefits.
Instrument Bank
The British Double Reed Society is delighted to announce the launch of our new Instrument Bank!
From the start of 2025, we will begin accepting applications from BDRS members to borrow instruments from the bank.
The first set of instruments available for loan includes:
Rigoutat Expression Oboe (professional model)
Mönnig Diamant 180D Cor Anglais (professional model)
Lark Bassoon (beginner/intermediate model) – two available
Additionally, thanks to a generous donation from Howarth of London, we are thrilled to offer:
Two Howarth Junior Oboes
Two Howarth S10 Oboes
These Howarth Oboes are available for short-term loans to BDRS members, schools, and music hubs to support the establishment of new oboe learning opportunities or to assist with double reed recruitment events.
-
Applications open on 7th January 2025 and close on 15th March 2025 for the instruments listed above. To apply, please complete the application form.
-
Loan periods will vary depending on the instrument’s purpose and availability. The majority of instruments will be given on yearly loans that can be renewed upon application. The Howarth Junior and S10 oboes will only be available on short-term loans that are a maximum of one school term. Successful applicants will receive specific details upon approval.
-
Applicants must be current BDRS members. For instruments donated for short-term use (e.g. Howarth Junior and S10 Oboes), schools and music hubs may also apply.
-
The Instrument Bank will continue to grow over time, with additional instruments becoming available in future rounds. We encourage members to stay informed via the BDRS website and newsletters for updates.
-
If you have an instrument to donate to the bank or are seeking a specific instrument not currently listed, please contact BDRS Chair, James Turnbull.
-
For more information about the application process, loan terms, or instrument care requirements, please refer to our FAQ and Loan Guidelines.
-
BDRS extends heartfelt thanks to the individuals and organisations who have contributed to the Instrument Bank. This includes numerous anonymous donors as well as John Hayward, Anne Allcock, Andrew Malcolm, Christine Job, Bridie Bloor (BB Reeds), Howarth of London, Sally Groves, and Charlotte Humphrey.
Teacher Database
Teachers of double-reed instruments who are members of the BDRS can have their details added to the database by filling out this form. Please note this form will only work for BDRS members who have logged into the BDRS website.
The database is visible to anyone and can be accessed here. If you are looking for a teacher, please note that this list is not BDRS-endorsed and the BDRS takes no responsibility for the accuracy or otherwise of its contents. Anyone seeking a teacher for students under the age of 18 is advised to check with them that they have an up-to-date Enhanced DBS check, which should be either not more than two years old, or kept current via the DBS online update service.
Teachers’ Support Hub
The British Double Reed Society is excited to be launching the BDRS Teachers' Support Hub, a dedicated community resource for double reed teachers. This network aims to foster collaboration and support among teachers by offering virtual meet-ups, workshops, and opportunities for resource sharing. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your teaching journey, the network will provide a space to exchange ideas, share best practices, and discuss challenges in an encouraging and inclusive environment.
We are committed to helping double reed teachers stay connected and informed. Through the BDRS Teachers' Support Hub, you’ll have access to a wealth of teaching materials, new approaches to pedagogy, and the latest developments in double reed education.
More information to follow in early 2025!
Playing Opportunities
If you are looking for playing opportunities or would like to advertise any in your local ensembles, please join the BDRS and access this information through the BDRS noticeboard. This can be found in the new ‘Members’ Area’.
To advertise a playing opportunity, please email us at website@bdrs.org.uk.
Repertoire
This page is dedicated to helping double reed players discover and explore a wide range of music. Whether you’re searching for new pieces to perform or looking to expand your repertoire, we’ve gathered some valuable resources to assist you. In the coming months BDRS will be establishing a more comprehensive list of repertoire but in the meantime below are some useful resources.
Recommended Resources
-
The Institute for Composer Diversity is committed to promoting diverse voices in music. Their database offers a wealth of repertoire by underrepresented composers, making it easier for performers to discover and include a variety of works in their programs.
-
A comprehensive resource for oboe repertoire, the Haynes Oboe Catalogue features a wide selection of music for oboe, including solo works, chamber music, and orchestral parts. Explore the catalogue to find new pieces to enhance your playing.
-
We encourage our members to share their favourite pieces and repertoire lists. If you have recommendations or specific works you’d like to highlight, please get in touch with us.
Other Resources
-
Instrument Funding
A list of charities offering help with either purchasing or borrowing an instrument.
-
Contrabassoon Fingerings
Nick Hunka’s Contrabassoon Fingering Charts
(by kind permission of his widow Alison) -
Roger Lord's Chamber Music Scores
We are extremely grateful to oboist Jenny Porcas, widow of the late Roger Lord, for making available his scores and parts for free use by all.
-
Bach's Organ Works Arranged for Chamber Ensemble
The legendary Israeli bassoonist Mordechai Rechtman has kindly made available his excellent arrangements of some of Bach’s organ music, for anyone who would enjoy playing them.
-
Multitrack Recording
With thanks to John Clarke for this very clear document detailing methods of multi-tracking single-line instruments.