Introducing Woodwinds The Bassoon College Course no Miss Sterling

The Bassoon

Bassoon Lowest sounding instrument in the woodwind family Double Reed, like the oboe Hybrid Bore, conical and straight Rich mellow sound, often considered humorous and otherwise expressive

Double Reed Instrument Double reed--two pieces of reed, or cane, are fastened together –Sound is produced when air is blown through the opening created by the two pieces of cane. Most amateurs and professionals make their own reeds. Students can buy reeds from a music store, catalogue, or through their private teacher.

Getting Started Choosing a student –Clarinet or flute players from high in the section are recommended. –Enthusiasm and dedication are a must if a student is expected to overcome double reed challenges. –If it is possible to know, supportive parents are a blessing. Students will require lessons and practice in the home.

Choosing a bassoon Many programs have few to no operable bassoons. Repair people who can in fact fix your school’s bassoon are far too expensive, trust me.

Choosing a bassoon Older, used models –Make bassoonist friends in college so there is someone to call upon to evaluate instruments. Puchners and Schreibers produced in the 1970’s are quality instruments, if cared for. Fox student models (yes, plastic is fine) Heckel student models are always in good taste.

Playing the Bassoon Flicking Half-holes Pitch problems Reeds

Flicking Flicking--using the A and C keys as temporary register keys for the pitches –This compensates for the lack of a “true” register key. –Without flicking these notes will growl. –To flick: hit and immediately release the A key for A and the C key for B, B flat, and C when you play those notes. –Also helps intonation

Half-hole A half-hole is another way to vent the tube as a register key would. –The first finger on the top hand should roll down so that the hole is half-open. –Pitches need a half hole.

Playing the bassoon Both flicking and half holing should be taught from the introduction of the pitches involved.

Pitch Problems The bass range is likely to be sharp. –Students need to open the throat, not lower the jaw, and flatten the chin. The baritone range is the most in tune, tendency near the break is to be sharp. –Same solution

Pitch Problems (cont’d) From the break up to middle C sharpness occurs. Middle C, C#, and D tend to be flat. –Support from the stomach and an “EEE” shape in the throat should bring pitch up. E flat above middle C may be flat. Add the top pinky key (E flat key) on the top hand. All notes above this pitch should use that key.

Reeds

Online catalogues and local stores are acceptable places to purchase reeds.Online catalogues One reed should last for a few weeks. –It can last for months. Jones or Forrest are recommended brands.

Bassoon Good Luck! See you next time!