Australia is missing out on a musical revolution that has been building in several countries for the past fifteen years.

Traditionally, oboe and bassoon are introduced at High School. However, in Europe, smaller, simpler instruments have been transforming the landscape of double reed teaching and increasing musical and educational outcomes for many.

Photo courtesy of https://www.guntramwolf.de/

Following successful Festivals in 2007 and 2009 and the continuous inspiration of innovative manufacturer Guntram Wolf, the 2013 Symposium in Kronach, Germany ‘Big Harmony for Small People’ showcased successful pedagogical approaches from Norway, Germany, the UK and Switzerland. Around 100 young people aged between 6 and 10 performed in woodwind ensembles with a focus on group teaching. Bayreuth oboe teacher and Artistic Director Antje Lotz, explains: “At the time I met Guntram I only had a few oboe students aged around 15. The rest of my students were learning the recorder but I hoped that some of them would move onto the oboe later.  My 5 oboe students became 30 and now more than half of them are aged under 10. I have no recorder students now but lots of young...