The Bassoon
The bassoon is a double reed instrument and the bass voice of the woodwind section. It is a long conical bore, which curves at the bottom and makes it look twice as long as it really is. When it was first invented in the 16th century, musicians had to stand on a ladder to play the bassoon! As the need for bassoonists increased in the 1800s, Carl Almenräder and Johann Adam Heckel improved the instrument making it louder with better intonation and resonance. They also introduced a new key system that is similar to other woodwind instruments. Today, it's highly recognizable sound is present in all modern orchestras and most concert bands. The bassoon's timbre and prestige make it an important instrument.
Why Bassoon?
The bassoon is widely known as the "clown" of the woodwinds because
it's often used to portray comical characters or moods. That doesn't
necessarily mean that you have to be funny to play bassoon, but it
doesn't hurt! Bassoon is a challenging instrument, but keep practicing.
How does Bassoon contribute to a band or orchestra?
When the bassoon was initially added to orchestras, it served as an
instrument to double the bass parts. As bassoon players became more
proficient at their instrument, they were featured more often. Today
they act as the very important bass voice in the woodwind section and
contribute to the low end of the whole orchestra.
The parts of a Bassoon
- The reed is two pieces of cane that vibrate to create the sound. The reed is connected to the body of the bassoon using the bocal.
- In addition to the normal keys, the player has multiple thumb keys to play different notes.
- The boot joint is a U-shaped piece that joins the two parts of the instrument and sends the sound up to the top of the instrument.
Tips
A lot of the pros make their own reeds, but when you first start, you
will probably want to get them from your local music store. Ask you
teacher to show you the safe and proper way to make your own reeds.
The reed's vibrations create the bassoon's sound, so it is very important to have a strong, but controlled embouchure.
Be sure to sit up straight and hold the instrument away from your body. This will help with your breath support.
Double reed instruments like bassoon require a lot of air, be sure to practice proper breathing techniques.
How to pick a good Bassoon
Getting your first bassoon is a big deal; here are some things to consider.
Wood or Synthetic? Synthetic bassoons are made out of plastic so they are lighter and less expensive. A lot of students start on a plastic bassoons because they are easier to maintain. All of the pros use wood bassoons, though, and they usually prefer the richer more vibrant sound. Check with your teacher and your local retail store to see which is right for you!
New or used? Your local music retailer will be able to advise you on pre-loved instruments that they have in stock. This can be a worthy alternative. Unless you know specifically what you want, beware of the internet! You will not get the support, advice and service you will get from your local retailer.
If you are going to buy a used bassoon, be sure to check the keys to make sure they aren't leaking or noisy. Also, check the body of the bassoon for dents and a worn finish. Make sure the pads and the cork are still in good shape, too. If you decide to get a used bassoon, make sure a professional looks at it to make sure it's a good instrument. You will have it for a while.
Did you know?
In addition to the bassoon, there's an even bigger lower instrument
called the contrabassoon. If its tubing was stretched out, it would be
over 16 feet tall!