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Re: French bassoons

Author: Barry Stronge
Date: 2007-11-19 10:17

A gentleman I scarcely knew died and unexpectedly bequeathed me his Buffet-Crampon bassoon in his will. I received the instrument a week ago. He was a bachelor and he left his possessions to people he thought would appreciate them. The instrument came in the old type of cylindrical case. The bassoon is in good condition and blows freely, getting all the notes from low Bb to high F with ease. I am making reeds for it, guided by Gerald Corey's recommendations published on the internet.

I have hitherto played a Corton German system bassoon. I would say that the French instrument has the wider dynamic range and obtains the highest notes more easily. It is less gruff in tone than the German type. The French tone may not be to everyone's taste - more nasal, like the oboe - but I like it and I think it would blend better with the other woodwind.

My very first bassoon was a French system instrument made by Hawkes of Piccadilly. It was light to carry. It cost me £7 in a junk shop. It was sharp pitch and I gave it away to my nephew. However, it had a sweet tone, and I am glad now to have a French type again.

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French bassoons new

Terry Stibal

2006-08-02 20:07