Bassoon

The Bassoon is the bass member of the Woodwind family. Like the Oboe it has a double reed and overblows an octave higher. The Bassoon is considered to have a register tone similar to that of the human voice, particularly in the central and upper register. The instrument has a significant length and this is made playable by doubling the tube back on itself. A metal keying system is vital to allow the player to operate the widely spaced holes, which control pitch. A larget relative the Contra (or Double) bassoon plays an octave lower.