kontrafagot

Kontrafagot, or contrabassoon in English, is a large double-reed woodwind instrument and the lowest member of the standard orchestral woodwind family. It sounds about an octave lower than the bassoon and is typically pitched in Bb. The name derives from German Kontrafagot, with kontra- meaning counter and fagott meaning bassoon.

Construction and design: The instrument consists of several wooden sections connected by metal joints, creating a long folded bore that is usually three to four meters in total length. The bore is predominantly conical, contributing to its dark, resonant tone. It uses a double reed, often made of cane, mounted on a metal staple and mouthpiece. The body is commonly crafted from grenadilla wood or maple, and it features a curved neck and a large bell to help project its low frequencies. Because the contrabassoon is bulky and heavy, players typically rely on a shoulder strap or stand for support.

Range and use: The contrabassoon reads and sounds an octave below the bassoon, providing the deepest voices in the woodwind section. It is employed for weight and color in orchestral music, often doubling low bass parts or supplying extended low material in Romantic and modern works. It also appears in certain chamber ensembles and film scores.

Notable aspects: The instrument requires substantial air support and precise reed work. While less common than other woodwinds, the contrabassoon is a standard fixture in large orchestras and remains important for its unique low end and sonority.