Bassoon Buying Guide: Choosing the Perfect Instrument for Beginners and Professionals
Bassoon buying guide: How to choose the perfect instrument for beginners and professionals. Learn key traits separating student models from elite handmade bassoons. Get advice on selecting your ideal sound.
Playing the bassoon can be an incredibly rewarding experience for both beginner and professional musicians. However, finding your ideal instrument tailored to your skill level and budget can seem daunting. This exhaustive guide simplifies the process!
We’ll cover everything from choosing between purchasing or renting as a novice to evaluating elite handmade options once you’ve honed advanced technique. You’ll learn how to select the perfect bassoon for your playing style and aspirations.
Renting vs Buying Your First Bassoon
As a newcomer, a major decision is renting or buying. Here’s an overview:
Cost Comparison
- Purchase – Beginner models run $1,500-$3,500 plus accessories/operating costs
- Rent – $30-$50 monthly including instrument and often maintenance
Key Differences
Renting often makes the most financial sense when starting lessons. You can always buy later once your skills progress.
What to Look for Renting
If renting seems best, keep these guidelines in mind when evaluating instruments:
- Condition – Thoroughly inspect and playtest
- Accessories – Case and supplies should be included
- Flexible Terms – Ensure you can return or exchange models if dissatisfied
- Maintenance – Repairs, adjustments, and conditioning should be handled
Reputable shops offer quality rental programs perfect for beginners.
Purchasing Your First Bassoon
While many students rent initially, you may decide buying is right for you. Here is advice for finding an excellent beginner bassoon on a budget:
Typical Beginner Costs
- Bassoon – $1,500 to $3,500
- Accessories – $150 to $300
- Operating costs – $400+ yearly
Ideally budget $5,000+ for your first 3 years including supplies, maintenance, and operating expenses as you hone fundamentals.
Key Traits for Beginner Models
While pro bassoons offer superior performance, beginner instruments focus more on playability, durability, and cost:
- Weight and Balance – Comfort develops technique
- Keywork and Pads – Smooth playability aids early learning
- Precise Tonehole Undercutting – Tuning and tone consistency
- Bore Shape – Conical eases airflow for novices
Additional Beginner Bassoon Cost Considerations
The initial bassoon investment as a developing player goes beyond just the instrument itself. Budget for these other typical first-year expenses:
Lessons
- Weekly or bi-weekly lessons with an instructor versed in bassoon cost $70-$100 per session generally. Over a year this adds $3,500+ to your total.
- Essential for building proper technique, posture, breathing, and oversight on progress/challenges. Don’t cut corners here.
Accessories
Accessories in the first year can run $400 to $800 depending on items needed as training progresses:
- Essentials
- 2-4 bassoon reeds – $25 each
- Reed case – $15
- Thumb rest – $12
- Bassoon stand – $25-$50
- Extra bocal – $100-$150
- Cleaning supplies – $25
- 1-2 solo books – $50
- Strongly Recommended
- Metronome & tuner – $25
- Humidifier – $30
- Extra seat strap – $20
- Bore oil (4 oz.) – $12
- Nice Upgrades
- Bassoon practice mute – $20
- Padded gig bag – $80
- Music stand – $25
- Breath builder – $40
Buying Used vs New Beginner Bassoons
While used bargains seem appealing upfront, thoroughly vet instruments:
Used Bassoon Checklist
- Playtest full range
- Inspect for cracks/damage
- Obtain conditional warranty
- Verify recent servicing
Even with premiums of 15-25% over private sales, reputable shops ensure playable condition. Avoid uninspected deals where hidden repair costs outweigh any savings.
Today’s Top Student Bassoon Contenders
While the Schreiber S20 and Fox 222 remain student staples for generations, new manufacturing methods allow other excellent beginner options to emerge:
Yamaha leverages institutional knowledge supplying education globally into very playable budget-friendly models like the YFG-812IIS – uncommon responsiveness at a moderate price point!
How Many Reeds Do You Need as a Beginner?
While prolonging reed life seems economical, rotating 4-6 reeds prevents overuse damage extending usefulness dramatically:
- Soak reeds 5+ minutes pre-playing
- Rinse post-playing
- Allow to fully dry in a reed case
- Regularly cycle through reserves
Investing in multiples improves playability. You’ll gain experience far quicker, honing technique rather than wrestling worn-out reeds!
Bassoon Reed Brand Overview
Myriad bassoon reed artisans exist, each applying proprietary methods for shaping southern France cane:
Fox Artist Series
- The student reed standard – consistent quality
- Available across the widest range of strengths and profiles
- Great choice when starting lessons
Rigotti Gold
- Special process enhancing response across registers
- Distinctive warm, centered tone
- Slightly softer feel than equal-strength Fox
- Sophisticated sound as skills progress
Gonzalez GD
- Meticulously consistent grading
- Excellent upper register tuning
- Lightning-fast articulation across strengths
- Ideal for tackling contemporary repertoire
Polisi Artist
- Gorgeous tone with tuning reliability
- More costly but frequent pro player preference
- My top choice once decent embouchure control develops
While anatomy and setup affect preferences, these popular brands offer great jumping-off points to experiment with. Consult university faculty or band directors for reputable local suppliers too.
Common Student Bassoon Repairs
Despite careful handling, minor fixes frequently crop up on student models:
Find authorized techs specializing in your brand when issues emerge. Repair intricacies and specialized tools involved warrant letting seasoned pros handle adjustments.
Assessing Professional Bassoons by Ear
The search for a $15K+ custom pro bassoon warrants traveling to elite specialty shops with your teacher for keen evaluation. Follow this process by testing premium names like Fox, Heckel, and Püchner:
Range Flexibility
Meticulously assesses note transitions spanning full scales. Listen critically for:
- Smooth break navigation between registers
- Extreme high/low note response
- Pitch oddities on any specific notes
Top models feel effortless across the entire compass. Pay extra attention to low tones, as these make/break exposed solos!
Articulation Quality
Try repeated notes with gentle tonguing across dynamics, checking if each remains distinctly discernible. Then assess speed cleanly attacking rapid sixteenth-note runs using a tuner.
Tonal Consistency
Evaluate if the timbre shifts noticeably playing sustained tones from the softest pianissimos to loud fortissimos and beyond.
Response Time
Execute technical runs and trills requiring quick finger motions. Any delays will become readily apparent at faster speeds.
Settle for nothing less than instantaneous reactions suiting your talents. You have a long musical journey ahead together!
Why Weight and Balance Matter
While much emphasis lands on bore design influencing tone, weight distribution impacts comfort enabling better technique:
Typical Weight Range
- Beginner model – Under 9 lbs
- Professional – 10 to 11 lbs
Heavier instruments grow fatiguing, risking injury and hampering breathing fundamentals key for novices.
Balance Points
Better axes of equilibrium enhance stability and maneuverability:
- Slightly heavier boot sections
- Axial mass centralized along the vertical axis
When playtesting, gauge weight distribution, and maneuverability standing and by aiming the bell in various directions. Finding ideal heft and balance prevents long-term strain.
Recommended Bassoon Upgrade Pathway
Rather than drastic model changes, incremental upgrades better match improving skills as students advance:
This gradual process gives budget flexibility while allowing youthful anatomies to steadily acclimate building strength and endurance. It also permits swappable parts to customize setups rather than fully replacing instruments.
Teacher guidance balancing patience and pushing reasonable challenges remain invaluable in navigating these transitions. That external perspective spots each milestone signaling readiness reaching new tiers.
Spotting Quality Craftsmanship Hallmarks
Beyond bore design influencing tone, don’t overlook construction details ensuring silky mechanics and reliable maintenance protecting your investment:
Keyword Design
- Fluid linkages between touch pieces
- Minimal mechanical noise
Exterior Finish
- Hand-rubbed French polish prevents exterior damage
Joints & Corks
- Precision-fit tenons seat fully without wobbling
- Pull apart without excessive force
Key Height & Regulation
- Pads should seal uniformly along tone holes
- No residual hissing when covered fully
While skill comparing such traits develops gradually through assessing many instruments, trusted guidance from instructors who know your playing intimately can prove invaluable during selection.
Ideal Bassoon Case Features
For large yet delicate instruments often $10K+, protection requires more than basic gig bag padding. Seek these bassoon case attributes:
Hard Shell Options
- Airline legal carry-on size
- Rigid aluminum/composite exterior
- Humidity control systems
- Heavier weight
VS
Premium Soft Models
- Ballistic nylon withstands abuse
- Dense multi-layer interior pads
- Lighter but less crush protection
Universal Must-Haves
- Dual straps distribute the weight
- Structural rigidity prevents flex stress
- Water resistant fabrics
- Theft-deterring lockable zippers
- Backpack convertibility enables hands-free transport
Avoid flimsy cases lacking internal structure or padding – short-term savings are easily eclipsed by damage! Sturdy protection lasts decades.
Special Jazz Bassoon Considerations
Unlocking the bassoon’s potential in swift tempos requires an instrument tailored to the job:
Brightness
- Brassed/chromed bells add projection
- Wider tip opening reeds punch through boldly
- Lighter models quicken response
Rapid Key Action
Assess spring tension delivering lightning transitions across registers for effortless improvising.
Avoid bargain student models with sluggish mechanisms here!
Added Humidity Protection
Synthetic pads withstand moisture variability better than some leather options on vintage instruments.
Uniform Scale Flexibility
Test if the full chromatic range achieves proper tuning, preventing unexpected sharp or flat notes from ruining your fiery solo!
Bassoon Bore Oil Application Methods
While keeping wood body sections conditioned prevents cracking, approaches influencing tone merit experimentation:
Application Techniques
- Direct oil streams into openings
- Embed oil on swab tips twisting through
- Special bores with pre-saturated pads
- Aerosol sprays for broader dispersion
Climate Dependent Guidelines
Arid Region Players
- Oil weekly without fail
- Always carry emergency backup oil
Moderate Humidity
- Oil every 2-3 weeks
- Monthly may suffice if the bassoon stays put
Ideally, inspect bores routinely in case immediate re-oiling is needed rather than sticking to any fixed schedule.
Musical Impacts of Bassoon Bore Oils
Beyond conditioning added shading from oils remains
- Slight uptick in woody overtones
- Vibrancy helping stubborn notes speak
- Tuning stabilizes after weather shifts
The science stays inconclusive explaining subtle acoustic influences. But many bassoonists relish tones augmented by their secret homebrew blends!
Experiment with approaches to finding the perfect viscosity and flavor enhancing your playing.
Caring for Bassoon Pads and mechanics
Pads and interconnected keywork warrant meticulous care for flawless performance. Mind these maintenance musts:
Daily Pad Upkeep
- Swab tone holes using microfiber
- Wipe keys, rods, and touch pieces removing moisture and oils
Routine Precision Adjustments
- Key height regulation
- Tenon/cork positioning
- Post spacing
- Spring tensioning
- Axle pivoting
See technicians annually for pro-grade tweaks maximizing playability as you progress long-term. Protect mechanics proactively rather than reacting to problems as they emerge!
Ideal Reed Rotation Ranges Across Skill Levels
Investing in multiple reeds prevents overuse while enabling better tone development through controlled comparisons:
Wider rotation ranges keep any one reed fresher longer while revealing insights that mold embouchure control. Test reeds in controlled scenarios like scales for easier side-by-side tonal assessment.
Bassoon Manufacturing Innovation History
Tracing modern bassoon origins reveals clever inventions advancing playability and reliability over centuries of evolution:
Baroque Era
- Curved crook for comfortable hand position
- Wooden construction begins
Classical Innovations
- Keywork expands the range and chromatic facility
- Conical bore with double back hook
- Ivory and bone materials protect durability
1800-1850 Advancements
- Full Boehm fingering system
- Enlarged tone holes
- German silver keywork resists corrosion
Modern Manufacturing
- Computer-guided precision machining
- Composite materials augment/replace wood
- Electroforming/nickel-plating enhances key durability
Today’s students benefit from centuries of ideas enhancing bassoons with increasingly better tone, ergonomics, and reliability! This heritage inspires!
Protecting Bassoon Pads & Keywork From Damage
A key mechanical issue for any reed instrument lies in avoiding dents, bends, or impact damage ruining delicate precision pad seals and key regulation. Guard against harm using:
Purpose-Built Cases
Seek rigid protection with dense interior cushioning preventing motion while carrying. Soft options work only with equal diligence avoiding bumps/drops in transit.
Setup Safety Protocol
- Ensure benches offer padded surface
- Both hands control the instrument whenever transported
- Place on stand immediately if setting down
- Position to prevent accidental bumps
- Keep away from moisture sources
Environment Control
Avoid extremely hot or cold vehicle interiors allowing temperature stabilization and protecting wood and mechanics from degradation in storage/transit.
While a few inevitable door frame run-ins may occur in the early years, instilling solid fundamentals prevents easily hundreds of dollars in cumulative damage that could otherwise accrue over decades of ownership.
Bassoon Jazz Articulation Essentials
Beyond seeking bright responsive instruments, adapting single reed technique concepts used on saxophones transforms articulation immensely:
Think “Dah”
Saying a crisp syllabic “dah” envisaging consonant tongue placement between the reed and roof of the mouth sharpens note attacks capturing that signature brass staccato punch.
Accentuate Releases
Let notes breathe naturally rather than pinching ends with the embouchure for more resonant decay. Avoid a tight “wah” closure.
Alternate Tonguing
Swiftly alternating between normal tonguing and syllables like “du” or “gu” enables rapid-fire passages. Sax players adopt this for blistering tempos impossible with single tonguing.
Air Support
Maintaining steady airstream pressure using strong abdominal power provides more precise reed control. Avoid wavering dynamics from weak inconsistent airflow.
Adapting wise guidance from single reed veterans will work wonders transforming lackluster stock bassoon articulation into thrilling jazzy snap worthy of any classic Blue Note record!
Essential Bassoon Gear for Gigging Jazz Players
Tackling the club circuit requires robust gear protecting precious instruments amid the chaos of load-ins and breakdowns:
Premium Multi-Purpose Cases
Seeking convertible backpack models with plush interiors yet abuse-resistant exterior shells. Avoid fragile gig bags!
Portable Humidifiers
Small USB-powered units offer insurance against wood and pad drying to dangerously low moisture levels.
Backup Reeds
Always keep 6+ extras on hand stored in cases so chipped/warped reeds won’t derail any extended improv excursions!
Cable Ties
Prevent slipping joints mid-song. Clear ties prove nearly invisible.
Cleaning Kits
Microfiber swabs, pad savers, key brushes – compact all essentials in one zip pouch.
Metronome/Tuner
An absolute must confirm you lock into the perfect pitch on stages lacking monitors/sound reinforcement.
While logistics handling delicate instruments proves stressful initially, adopting a modular “road warrior” mentality ensures the music shines through thanks to smart contingency planning!
Special Considerations for Marching Band Bassoons
The physical demands and outdoor elements faced by marching musicians require specialized equipment so bassoons can hold their own on the field:
Composite Body Instruments
Favor ultra-resilient plastic and wood composite materials over fragile all-wood models susceptible to cracking.
Lyre & Flip Folder
Hands-free sheet music options prove essential for mobility.
Neck and seat Straps
Distribute sizable weight for longer stretches.
Weather Protection
Special covers shield keys and tone holes from storms/debris while allowing playability.
Portable Humidifier
Protects wood pieces against dry conditions causing joints to warp or crack.
Heavy Keys
Reduce the impact of wind gusts while maintaining pad seal integrity.
While conveniences like these increase upfront costs, they enable bassoons to fulfill show design and visual roles far more readily without concerns over damaging delicate professional gear intended primarily for concert hall settings. March forth proudly with your specialized field commander bassoon!
Essential Bassoon Accessories Across Skill Levels
As skills mature, growing into upgraded tools better supports continued growth:
Beginner Essentials
Focus on fundamentals before advanced gear:
- Tuner/Metronome
- At least 2 bocals
- Basic body/tenon swabs
- Bore oil
- Bocal brush
- Multiple beginner #2-2.5 reeds
- Durable stretch-style seat strap
Intermediate Additions
- Bocal upgrade (axial, П+)
- Hard contoured case
- Premium padded seat strap
- Fine bore swabs
- Reeds: Rotate 6-10 across Ф1/2-3 strengths
- Music stand
- Reed case/
Final Thoughts – Finding Your Perfect Bassoon Match
After this exhaustive exploration spanning student rentals to professional custom instruments, a few closing perspectives can guide your decision-making:
For Beginners – Don’t become overwhelmed. Start simply with a rental while taking lessons to establish fundamentals. Revisit upgraded buying options later as skills, ears, and lungs mature.
For Advancing Students – Methodically narrow selections by budget, then assess key traits like tone consistency, comfortable key heights, and focused sound matching your talents. On-site trials prove invaluable during this transition.
For Professionals – The quest for your artistic voice after years of honing skills deserves traveling to elite specialty shops and trying dozens of instruments. Spend quality time play-testing bespoke options with your teacher providing keen insight on the perfect tonal match.
While no formula predicts ideal partnerships, trust patience in the process. Dedicate to continual improvement beyond any instrument alone. Let passion reach new heights!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do bassoons cost?
Bassoons vary in price significantly, starting from a few thousand dollars for beginner models and can exceed $30,000 for professional, handcrafted instruments. Your budget will be a significant determinant in your choice.
What accessories will I need?
You’ll need to consider essentials such as a robust case, a collection of reeds, swabs, and bore oil as part of your initial budget. Additional items that are nice to have include a humidifier and a tuner.
How many bassoon reeds should I rotate?
It is advisable to rotate between 4 to 6 reeds. This strategy helps extend each reed’s life and prevents damage from overuse.
How often should I bring my bassoon for servicing?
Plan to have your bassoon checked and adjusted by an authorized technician once a year or whenever you encounter problems like sticky pads or bent keys. Avoid trying to fix these issues yourself.
What should I listen for when testing instruments?
When testing bassoons, listen for consistent tone across different registers, clarity and speed of articulation, and how flexibly you can play dynamics. Ensure the instrument feels comfortable in your hands.
How do I pick a new vs used model?
When considering a used instrument, exercise caution. Make sure to inspect it thoroughly, get a conditional warranty to ensure its playability, and purchase from reputable dealers. Paying a small premium might save you hassle in the long run.
What case features are vital for protection?
Look for cases with a solid shell to prevent crushing, water-resistant materials to protect from moisture, interior padding that can be customized for snug-fitting, and lockable zippers for added security against theft.
