|
|
 |
|
|
| Pitched in C
(an octave below the oboe), the bassoon is the largest of the double
reed instruments. The bassoon comes in five parts - the crook (or
bocal) which is the thin mouthpipe which connects the reed to the
main body; the wing joint and long joint which lock together in the
centre of the instrument; the boot joint - the solid "U-bend" at
the bottom; and the bell. Due to the fact that fewer instruments
are made, mass production methods have not been introduced to bassoon
production - meaning all instruments are hand made, and are therefore
generally more expensive than other woodwind instruments. The good
news is that in the UK, after years of decline the number of pupils
taking up double reed instruments has started to rise - due to more
generous government spending on LEA music services. However the practical
negative ramifications of this is that there can sometimes be supply
shortages as manufacturers try and keep up with the larger demand. |
|
Bassoon technical
specifications
There are a number of different issues to consider when purchasing your
bassoon. Material Unlike other woodwind instruments that are made from
African black wood, bassoons are made from seasoned maple. Some American
made student models are produced with plastic bodies, but these are not
very popular in the UK where most players start on a wooden instrument. |
Number
of Keys
As with oboes, the number of keys on a bassoon varies significantly (from
22 to 28). The extra keys generally allow for alternative fingerings
and/or more automated venting allowing for easier playing as opposed
to a greater range or better tuning. Generally speaking the higher the
specification of the instrument, the greater the number of keys. In particular,
student and intermediate models sometimes come with a "crook lock" which
automatically closes the "whisper" key (at the base of the
crook), when notes below the low E are played. This locks the instrument
into the lower register. |
 |
|
Rollers
In addition to the number
of keys, the numbers of "rollers" on keys varies. Rollers
(small rotating cylinders on the edge of keys), enhance the smooth
movement of fingers between keys, aiding playing. Generally speaking
the higher the specification of the instrument, the greater the
number of rollers.
|
Bassoon
key guards
Obviously a bassoon's keywork is very complicated and a well-balanced
action can be knocked out of line if not treated with extreme care. Key
guards protect exposed and particularly delicate keys with metal protective
strips. |
|
| The
greater the number of keys, rollers and guards the "better" the
instrument's specification. However, with every extra feature comes
additional weight, complication and cost. Care therefore has to be
taken in choosing the correct specification instrument for your needs. |
 |
Short Reach
A number of manufacturers offer "short reach" models for younger
players with smaller hands. In particular, the layout of a bassoon's key
work can make reaching the keys engaged with the 4th (ring fingers) difficult
for small hands. Short reach bassoons tackle this issue with slightly modified
keys, creating a more natural playing position for younger players. |
Lining
The boot joint of the bassoon is particularly prone to damage from moisture
- due to the fact that moisture will naturally accumulate in the bottom "U-bend".
A lined bore in the boot joint is therefore very important to prevent
premature rotting. |
 |
 |
Socket Protectors
The pressure put on the joint sockets can be quite severe due to the size
of the bassoon, and without protection these can become loose, making the
joints "wobbly". Brass tenon and socket protectors prevent damage
and thus create a good tight and precise fit.
|
Crooks
The specification of the instrument's crook (often referred to as the
bocal) is paramount in determining the instruments playing characteristics.
In particular, the internal taper of the crook and the material used
has a significant effect on the tone, projection and response of the
instrument. Consequently, many bassoons come supplied with two different
crooks as standard and manufacturers offer a range of additional crooks
with specific characteristics. |
|
Instrument
Recommendations
As stated earlier, bassoons can be prone to supply problems and choice
is therefore sometimes regrettably restricted by practical considerations
on availability. We endeavour however to keep a good selection of all the
short reach, student and intermediate/advanced models recommended in stock. |
Short Reach
Models
The most popular models are the Schreiber 5013 and Adler 1356.
Student models
Equally popular are the Schreiber 5016 (22 key), Adler 1357/4 (23 key)
and 1358/4 (25 key). All these models feature a high D key and crook lock,
with the 1358/4 having the additional Ab to Bb trill key and automatic
C# to D# key connection. |
|
Intermediate/Advanced
Particularly popular is the Schreiber 5031 graduate model, which combines
a professional bore with enhanced features. |
|
Professional
Models
Again here Schreiber are popular with their 5071 professional and 5091
prestige models. |
|
Mini - Bassoons
The Howarth mini-bassoon (pitched in G) is designed for children as young
as 7 to start playing on, and features a standard (if miniature!) fingering
configuration. |
|
Contra - Bassoons
Scored in many orchestral and wind band works the contra (in low C) produces
the most sublime bass tones. Professionals occasionally buy these as an
investment to secure lucrative orchestral gigs where the number one requirement
is to have ownership of a contra-bassoon! Best value here is the Amati. |
|
|
|
|
 |
|
