Does the thought of starting a Bassoonist in beginning band scare you? Do you worry about losing students who switch from other instruments? We understand and we want to help! Join us as we discuss and solve the pitfalls of beginning bassoonists.
Kyle Bickwit
- Biographical Information
Kyle Bickwit is currently in his fourth year as the Director of Bands at East Hall Middle School in Gainesville. Previously, Mr. Bickwit taught for 4 years as Director of Bands at Social Circle Middle-High School in Social Circle, GA. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Music Education and Bachelor of Arts in Music Performance (Bassoon) from the University of Georgia’s Hugh Hodgson School of Music. During his time at UGA, he spent two years as a member of the Redcoat Band and two years on staff as the Front Ensemble Instructor. Mr. Bickwit continues to stay involved with UGA as a staff member for their Summer Music Camps. A highlight of his performance career was his summer touring as a Marimba player with the Carolina Crown Drum and Bugle Corps in 2011. Mr. Bickwit continues to teach private bassoon lessons in the Gainesville area. In his free time he enjoys playing tennis, running and rock-climbing. He currently lives in Athens, Georgia with his wife, Cecile.
Wes York has taught middle and high school band in the state of Georgia for 18 years, including time in Burke County, Cobb County, and Greater Atlanta Christian School before arriving at Malcom Bridge Middle School in 2016. Bands under his direction have performed at the University of Georgia Janfest clinic and the London New Year's Day Parade as well as many community events in the greater Atlanta area. His students have earned placement in the GMEA District Honor Band, Georgia All State Band, Atlanta Youth Wind Symphony, the Governor's Honors Program, and numerous other ensembles. Mr. York is a member of the Georgia Music Educators Association and the National Association for Music Education and is a 2014 recipient of the Citation of Excellence from the National Band Association. In 2019 he was inducted into Phi Beta Mu, an International Bandmasters Fraternity. He holds Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Music Education from the University of Georgia and is currently a candidate for a Doctorate in Music Education. Mr. York lives in Winder, Georgia with his wife Blakely and their three sons - Ashton, Collin, and Embry.