buying a bassoon (in brief)

I have a number of students considering the purchase of their own bassoon. At this point in their development I would recommend spending $4-9k on a bassoon that would get them all the way thru high school and into college.

Having said that, there are some factors we can use to rule some sellers out. If the answer to any of these questions is NO, you most likely do NOT want to consider that instrument.

• Is the bassoon being sold from a US or UK company or address?
• Does the bassoon have a stated brand name?
• Is that brand Fox, Moosmann, Schreiber, or Puchner? (Sometimes Kohlert and Moennig are ok, but the age and accompanying info has to be really good.)
• Is the bassoon made of wood, with no major repairs listed as needed? (A little wear is ok, and even expected. If cared for well, bassoons don't really lose value and cannot be "played out".)
• Is the bassoon less than 30 years old?
• Does the seller have a high satisfaction percentage?
• Is the listing accompanied by detailed photos and bassoony sounding words, like "rollers" and "high d key"?

Most reputable double reed suppliers will allow the instrument to go out on trial. Don't be afraid to ask about this, or to phone them with questions. They want you to be happy with your purchase and will do what they can to ensure it.

​Please see my other page of links for reputable double reed suppliers.