Bassoon

Bassoon Woodwind Instrument

The bassoon is a member of the woodwind family of instruments. Much larger than the oboe or the clarinet, it is an integral part of most symphony orchestras, providing a deep, rich, versatile bass.

The Instrument

The bassoon is bent in half for manageability. Stretched out to its full length, the bassoon would be just over eight feet. So that it can be played more easily, bassoons are doubled back in the middle. Thus, the bell-shaped end of the bassoon is actually above the mouth-piece. Bassoons disassemble into several pieces, making storage and transportation easier.

Bassoons are double reed instruments. This means that at the tip a reed is inserted. The musician blows into this reed to provide the vibration that creates the notes. Most advanced bassoonists make their own reeds in order to create one that fits their exact technique. Ready-made reeds can also be purchased.

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Music