Sergei Prokofiev (April 23, 1891 - March 5, 1953) was a Russian and Soviet pianist, composer, and conductor.  A graduate of the St. Petersburg Conservatory, Prokofiev is undoubtedly one of the most well known composers of the 20th century, and many of his works are staples in the repertoire, from his concertos for violin, cello, and piano,  seven symphonies, and to his ballets and operas. You've likely heard many of those, but unless you're a bassoonist (or REALLY in to Prokofiev, you might never have heard his Scherzo Humoristique for Four Bassoons.

Prokofiev wrote this first for piano, but then arranged it for four bassoons, and it's considered one of the first modern compositions for bassoon quartet. It's quintessential Prokofiev; there are certainly moments of deep beauty, but then there's healthy doses of rebelliousness, and comically ugly sections as well, making you wonder if he wrote the piece in jest or not. It's obvious from this work how well he knew the bassoon, and how to write for it. This fun little work is a definite crowd pleaser; whether you like bassoon quartets or not, it's a fun and enjoyable work!

We can't seem to find a recording of this, but we hope that changes soon!