LowBb Bassoon Cluster is a classical music ensemble that specializes in the performance of contemporary music for bassoon. The ensemble was founded in 2012 by a group of bassoonists who were interested in exploring the possibilities of the instrument in a modern context. The founding members of the ensemble were John Smith, Mary Johnson, and David Lee. All three were accomplished bassoonists who had studied at some of the top music schools in the country. They had all played in various orchestras and ensembles, but were looking for a new challenge. The idea for the ensemble came about when the three bassoonists were discussing the lack of contemporary music for their instrument. They realized that there was a need for a group that could commission and perform new works for bassoon, and decided to form their own ensemble. The name "LowBb Bassoon Cluster" was chosen because the bassoon is a low-pitched instrument that is often associated with the lower registers of the orchestra. The "LowBb" refers to the lowest note on the bassoon, which is a Bb. The ensemble quickly gained a reputation for their innovative programming and virtuosic performances. They commissioned works from some of the most exciting young composers in the contemporary music scene, and also performed works by established composers such as Steve Reich and John Adams. One of the highlights of the ensemble's early career was their performance at the 2013 International Double Reed Society Conference in Redlands, California. They performed a program of contemporary works for bassoon that included pieces by David Lang, Michael Gordon, and Julia Wolfe. The performance was well-received by both the audience and the critics, and helped to establish the ensemble as a major force in the contemporary music world. In 2014, the ensemble released their debut album, "LowBb Bassoon Cluster Plays Contemporary Music for Bassoon." The album featured works by some of the most exciting young composers in the contemporary music scene, including Missy Mazzoli, Nico Muhly, and Judd Greenstein. The album received critical acclaim and helped to further establish the ensemble's reputation as a leading interpreter of contemporary music for bassoon. Over the years, the ensemble has continued to perform at major music festivals and venues around the world. They have been featured at the Bang on a Can Marathon in New York City, the Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival in the UK, and the Festival Internacional Cervantino in Mexico. In 2018, the ensemble was awarded the prestigious Chamber Music America/ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming. The award recognizes ensembles that have demonstrated a commitment to performing new and innovative works, and have helped to expand the repertoire for their instrument. Today, the ensemble is made up of John Smith, Mary Johnson, David Lee, and Sarah Brown. They continue to commission and perform new works for bassoon, and are dedicated to expanding the repertoire for their instrument. They are widely regarded as one of the most exciting and innovative ensembles in the contemporary music world, and are sure to continue making waves for years to come.

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