Bassoon

Bassoon

Woodwind Family / Tenor and Bass Voice

Not usually encouraged as a beginning instrument, especially in Years 3 and 4.
Bassoon players generally begin on Clarinet, Flute or Saxophone and progress to Bassoon when their hand stretch is big enough, their musical development has progressed well and their commitment to diligent practice has been proven.

Smaller Bassoon are available for young students, known as the Quart and Quint Bassoon.
These are becoming increasingly popular in Northern Sydney at the moment.
The difficulty being that the band music does not include transposed parts for the Quart and Quint, so all parts need to be individually written out for them.

Physical Attributes

  • Hands are large enough to handle large stretches 
  • Teeth are smooth and free of sharp edges (which would dig into the lips)
  • Closed teeth meet evenly or have a slight overbite

Academic Attributes

  • Reading skills are above average
  • Focused and patient learner

Character Attributes

  • Perseverance and level of confidence are high
  • Strong work habits - willing to practice diligently and consistently
  • Student and Parents enjoy classical music
  • Desire to play bassoon is unwavering
  • Parental support is strong

Blow Test Achievements

  • Not tested at Year 2 blow tests, however an individual assessment can be undertaken.
    A good sense of Pitch would need to be demonstrated.

Instrument Progression

Contra Bassoon
Jazz Ensembles: Saxophone

BUYERS GUIDE

Bassoon is a very specialist instrument.
There aren't many around and not many teachers either.
We are very much hoping this will begin to turn around as we raise the profile of the Bassoon in school bands.
If you are looking to buy an Bassoon, you really need to talk to an Bassoon expert.

Bassoons come in Full Size, Quart (plays a 4th higher) and Quint (plays a 5th higher).
The Quart and Quint can be good options for smaller, younger beginners.
The term "fagottino" or "tenoroon" is sometimes used for these smaller bassoons. 
A full size bassoon can also be bought with condensed keys, meaning the fingers don't have to stretch as far.