Bassoon

The bassoon is a woodwind instrument in the double reed family that typically plays music written in the bass and tenor clefs, and occasionally the treble. Appearing in its modern form in the 19th century, the bassoon figures prominently in orchestral, concert band, and chamber music literature. The bassoon is a non-transposing instrument known for its distinctive tone color, wide range, variety of character and agility. Listeners often compare its warm, dark, reedy timbre to that of a male baritone voice. Someone who plays the bassoon is called a bassoonist.

Etymology

The word bassoon comes from French basson and from Italian bassone (basso with the augmentative suffix -one).

Range

The range of the bassoon begins at B1 (the first one below the bass staff) and extends upward over three octaves, roughly to the G above the treble staff (G5). Higher notes are possible but difficult to produce, and rarely called for: orchestral and concert band parts rarely go higher than C5 or D5. Even Stravinsky's famously difficult opening solo in The Rite of Spring only ascends to D5.

Podcasts:

PLAYLIST TIME:

Anywhere But Here

by: Business

I would like to meet Billy Kardoff
I would like to go to the pub
But im stuck here with me own company
My friend this is really tough
[Chorus:]
Anywhere but here
Anywhere but here
I would like to be upon the sea
or anywhere but here
I would like to ride a motorbike
I would like to drink with me mates
I would like to go to the cinema
And have me way with a date
[Chorus]
I would like to go to the palace
To pick up me MBE
I would like to go up to heaven
And sit on gods right knee




Latest News for: bassoons

Redlands Symphony Orchestra concert will feature new bassoon concerto

Redlands Daily Facts 03 Apr 2025
The Redlands Symphony Orchestra will present “The Wondrous Bassoon,” a concert featuring Estonian-born bassoonist Martin Kuuskmann and the orchestra’s string players, 7.30 p.m.

NSU Bassoon, Oboe Studios perform at regional conference (Northwestern State University of Louisiana)

Public Technologies 02 Apr 2025
NATCHITOCHES - The NSU Bassoon and Oboe Studios recently performed at the International Double Reed Society Midsouth Regional Chapter Symposiumheld at LSU in Baton Rouge ... Ortega of Anna on bassoon.
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