Our Bassoons

Written by Alan Fox

During the 20th Century, the bassoon underwent a steady evolution in performance characteristics, responding to long-term trends in the pitch of orchestras as well as to the demands of larger concert halls and the varying tastes of performers and audiences throughout the world.

In an effort to provide instruments with maximum projection and flexibility, while meeting sophisticated standards for intonation, tone quality and resonance, we have reviewed (and in some cases, resurrected) many of the earlier methods, materials, and acoustical designs that are currently in use in professional orchestras. The results show up in four different woods employed in the manufacture of our instruments, each of which has been combined, experimentally, with most of the acoustical designs, the most interesting ones being offered as options to the appropriate models.

Fox Model 601 Bassoon

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Thick Wall (Long)

Thick wall bassoons are known for their bigger and more resonant sound. The model 601 is voiced for use close to A:440 which gives it a warmer tone compared to higher pitched models. This design can deliver more power when pushed; yet can still easily handle soft attacks.

Fox Model 201 Bassoon

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Symphony Bore (Short)

The short bore design provides a singing voice that opens up in the solo register. An excellent choice for players who prefer a slightly higher pitched instrument with flexibility and a clarity of voice that is not available in the thick wall designs.

Fox Model II Bassoon

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Symphony Bore (Long)

This is the modern version of the original Fox Bassoon. It has been continuously developed under the supervision of Alan Fox since 1970. This bassoon has benefited from our constant research programs resulting in a good instrument of the past becoming a great instrument today. The warmth and roundness of its tone and the excellence of its scale make it a truly wonderful instrument on which to perform.

Fox Model III Bassoon

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Symphony Bore (Long), Polypropylene Body

This is our nicest plastic body bassoon. The metal bands give the appearance of a wood body instrument. Silver plating is standard. It's a popular choice among organizations needing the durability of the plastic combined with a refined appearance.

Renard Artist Model 240 Bassoon

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(Short Bore)

It’s the ultimate advanced student bassoon. Mechanically it has all the extras that any advanced student might need, including a high E key, and a whisper key lock, among other things. The short bore design provides the tone, flexibility and resonance that would otherwise be found only in professional models. Indeed, many professionals find this model well suited to their needs.

Renard Standard 222 Bassoon

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Our lowest price wood instrument. A good choice for new bassoonists and school music programs.

Renard Model 51 Short Reach Bassoon

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Polypropylene Body

An ideal instrument for younger middle school players. The modified keywork is adapted for younger players with small hands. Not recommended for high school and older players.

Fox Model 660 Bassoon

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Thick Wall (Short)

Thick wall bassoons are known their bigger and more resonant sound. The model 660 is voiced for use around A:442. This provides a more open tone quality compared to lower pitched models. It also provides a sense of greater flexibility to the player.

Fox Model 101 Bassoon

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