Bassoon double reed

The bassoon double reed is the heart of the instrument, handcrafted from Arundo donax cane to produce its distinctive timbre.

About this subject

The bassoon double reed is an essential and complex component, responsible for generating the instrument's unique and versatile sound. Unlike single reeds used in clarinets or saxophones, the double reed consists of two blades of Arundo donax cane that vibrate against each other when the musician blows. This construction demands meticulous craftsmanship: the reed maker selects high-quality cane tubes, cuts, scrapes, and binds the two halves with brass or nylon wire, adjusting thickness and profile to control resistance and response.

Arundo donax, a plant resembling bamboo, is cultivated in specific regions of southern France, Spain, and California, where the Mediterranean climate favors dense and flexible fibers. Each reed is unique, as the artisan adapts the curvature and opening according to the bassoonist and musical style. Wider reeds produce a full, powerful sound, while narrower ones favor precise attacks and subtle dynamics. The lifespan of a reed ranges from a few hours to a few weeks, depending on use and maintenance.

In the symphonic orchestra, the bassoon often assumes bass lines or pastoral melodies, thanks to the reed's allowance for a wide dynamic range and expressiveness. Professional musicians carry multiple reeds in a case, adjusting them with tools like a file and knife, as factors such as humidity and temperature affect the cane's behavior. The bassoonist's breathing technique and embouchure are also trained to extract the best from the reed, controlling pressure and diaphragmatic support.

Interesting fact: the modern bassoon (fagotto) has the reed inserted into a curved metal tube (bocal), unlike the contrabassoon, which uses a double bocal. The double reed is also used in the oboe and bagpipes, but the bassoon reed is larger and wider, about 3 cm long. Major manufacturers like Rigotti and Glotin supply semi-finished reeds, but many bassoonists prefer to make their own to obtain full control over the sound.

Frequently Asked Questions

What material is the bassoon double reed made of?

The bassoon double reed is made of Arundo donax cane, a plant similar to bamboo cultivated in Mediterranean regions. The artisan cuts, scrapes, and binds two blades with metal wire to form the reed.

Why do bassoonists often make their own reeds?

Each reed has unique characteristics of opening, thickness, and curvature. Making one's own reed allows the musician to customize resistance and response, adapting it to their style and to temperature and humidity conditions, ensuring better sound control.

What is the difference between a bassoon reed and an oboe reed?

The bassoon reed is larger and wider (about 3 cm) than the oboe reed, as it needs to vibrate with more air to produce low notes. Additionally, the bassoon uses a curved metal bocal to connect the reed to the instrument, while the oboe has no bocal.