Fagott

Fagott is the German and Italian name for the bassoon, a bass-range double-reed woodwind instrument. The name derives from Italian fagotto, meaning bundle, a reference to its folded, jointed construction. Modern fagotts are typically made of wood such as grenadilla or synthetic materials and feature a long, folded bore with a flared bell. They use a double reed tied to a metal or wooden bocal and are usually pitched in Bb. The instrument reads in bass clef and has a rich, resonant timbre suited to bass lines and expressive solos.

Construction and systems: The instrument consists of several joints and a broad key mechanism. Two fingering systems are used in different regions: the German Heckel system and the French Buffet system. The modern bassoon is complemented by the contrabassoon, a larger member pitched much lower and used to reinforce the bottom end in orchestras and wind ensembles.

Playing and repertoire: The fagott covers a wide range from the low register to upper notes and is valued for its dynamic contrast and lyrical tone. It requires a vibrating double reed and precise breath control, with technique including rapid passages, legato phrasing, and extended techniques in contemporary music. The instrument is standard in orchestras, wind quintets, and many chamber and contemporary groups.

Repertoire and notable figures: Mozart’s bassoon concertos are central to the instrument’s solo literature, and works by Weber and Hindemith are frequently performed. The fagott also appears prominently in Stravinsky and other 20th-century scores. Noted players include Klaus Thunemann and Dag Jensen, who helped expand modern bassoon technique and interpretation.