Valerie Curd

Valerie began her musical journey under her grandparents' television set in Los Angeles, California, entranced by Disney's Fantasia, which led immediately to violin lessons. She studied violin privately for nearly six years before transitioning to woodwind instruments during middle school band. By high school, she had firmly committed to the bassoon as a primary instrument, self-taught by way of YouTube, online forums, and books on the art of bassoonery. She attended the Bocal Majority Bassoon Camp, where she studied bassoon, reed making, and collaborative musicianship. This opportunity gave her the tools she needed to facilitate efficient and effective self-education early on. That dedication, combined with a very effective high school music education, made her a competitive student, winning positions in Southern California Band and Orchestra Association honor bands and superior distinctions at performance festivals.

Valerie completed 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 her technical understanding of the bassoon. Her diligence and commitment won her 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 her studies. She 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 her into graduate studies.

Valerie completed a Master of Music in Bassoon Performance in 2022. Under the direction of Nancy Goeres, she transformed her musicianship from mere proficiency to detailed artistry. Her graduate studies also offered the opportunity to study Alexander Technique, chamber music, and classical music in the modern world at large. Simultaneously, she found a voice in community groups such as the Horizons Ensemble, directed by conductor Julian Gau, and smaller chamber ensembles with friends. Chamber settings like these offered the opportunity to explore the role of the bassoonist beyond the symphony orchestra.

As a graduate, Valerie continues to perform, teach, and serve the musical community. She is currently pursuing a Graduate Diploma in Bassoon Performance at New England Conservatory with Boston Symphony Orchestra Principal Bassoonist Richard Svoboda. This degree focuses on performing and developing a unique sound as an artist. The exceptional environment and direction offered at the conservatory has supported and furthered preparation for professional auditions and performances. She continues to freelance and collaborate with artists across the Greater Boston Area in chamber and orchestral settings, and has teaches her own small but mighty bassoon studio.