It is a very awkward thing, posing for a photograph with a bassoon. What does one do with the bassoon? Sling it over the shoulder in a casual fashion? Dance around it? Cradle it lovingly? As you can see from the above, I decided to point it at Brighton Pier whilst trying to look mean. Whether it works or not is entirely a matter of opinion, but at least you can’t see my face.
Anyway, I’ve just had a quick scout around the internet for photographs of classical musicians. Now, please be aware that I’m not dissing anyone’s musical talent here. I am, however, having a bloody good laugh at a selection of quite unspeakable photographs.
Here is a lady trying to look sexy with a bassoon. She has obviously decided that her only option is to go topless…
And here’s a flautist. I don’t know about you, but I think this picture needs a snake.

I have an incongruous flute. Look closely, I have an incongruous piccolo too. I don’t know what the Eiffel Tower is doing in this picture.
Here’s another flautist. He’s decided to promote himself by walking delicately round his instrument.
Right, time for some gratuitous and supremely awkward nudity.
That poor violinist. She looks a bit tragic, doesn’t she. Although she has at least been sensible about where to put her bow.
I have to say that of all the musical ensemble photographs, the wind quintet has brought me the most joy. Look!
What is it about wind quintets? They always feel they have to do something… different.
Finally – but I could, to be honest, go on forever with this – here’s an unfortunate picture of a guitarist.