PRODUCTS: BASSOONS

Overview:
We build a modern short-bore instrument with an equally divided long joint and bell. The extended bell is built in one piece and available in either German or French design. B.H. Bell bassoons speak easily, they are very flexible with an even resonance throughout. (Read what the players say) Every instrument is built to measure: we get to know a player and his/her personal qualities and then make a bassoon that fits the musician.

Plating:
Our keys are triple plated: first with bright nickel, second with silver and finally with rhodium. We've found rhodium to be the best because it is non-allergenic, does not tarnish and is unaffected by sweat or oils. Gold plating is available at extra cost.

Keywork:
Keywork is based on conventional modern key design however, because every instrument is custom-made, we key the instrument exactly the way you want it to suit both your style of playing and the demands of your repetoire. There is no extra charge for this.

Bells:
The vast majority of our instruments are fitted with the German bell although the French bell style is available at no extra charge.

Wood:
We carefully chose the wood for its hardness, weight and specific gravity. All four pieces for each bassoon are carefully selected from the same tree. This attention to selection guarantees consistent resonance throughout the instrument. Since bassoon #23 we have used highly figured maple exclusively -- from curly or quilted, to flamed, fiddleback. Quite apart from producing a bassoon that we modestly think is the most beautiful in the world, the quality of tone and resonance is exceptional. That last 4 bassoons have been produced from British Columbia big leaf maple and is significantly softer than woods we have used in the past. This has affected the tone, as we anticipated, and suits the musicians these instruments were specifically made for. We encourage you to enquire about which type of wood will give you the instrument you want. We finish our bassoons with multiple coats of tung oil varnish hand-rubbed to a satin finish.

Breaking in the instrument:
Most customers make the change to a Bell bassoon as their principal instrument very easily. It is not unusual for a musician to receive the bassoon in the morning and play it, in concert, in the evening. At the same time we design our instruments with an eye to the future. Our research shows that some areas of the bore get smaller and other areas larger as a bassoon ages. We take this into account so, like fine wine, the Bell bassoon improves with age.

Case:
Our bassoons are delivered to you in a compact custom-built case (56cm x 30cm x 10cm) that will allow you to take the instrument on as carry-on luggage on domestic and international flights. (picture of case)

Summary:
B.H. Bell bassoons that are really worthy of the name "B.H.Bell". The quality is equal to the best makers with unique characteristics that make it more flexible and supple, and above all, even in sound and resonance. We make every possible effort to ensure our instruments are the best in the world and that they will serve you a lifetime.


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