PRODUCTS: BOCALS

Our bocals have the same quality as our bassoons: they are very flexible. We currently make four types of bocals (CC,C,V and pre-war) based on bore. Each are available in either thick or thin wall construction ("T" designates the thick wall bocal which favours the low partials producing a more focused, compact sound that tunes slightly lower). The first three models - CC, C, and V, are variations of the modern bore and have many similarities in the way they play however, the "pre-war style is significantly different.

CC
This is our normal bore. The emphasis is on evenness of scale with no attempt to favour any specific register.

C
This variation tunes slightly lower overall with a greater dominance of the low partials in the sound. The "bottom fifth" register is greatly enhanced with the compromise being a somewhat less flexible extreme high register.

V
The "V" bore is intended to lower the pitch of the third octave, especially problem notes that tend to fly. These bocals feel more resistant throughout and the sound can seem to be slightly dampened. This bore can, however, give unexpectedly good results when matched to specific bassoons.

Pre-war
This bore also produces a high-register bocal. This "pre-war" type of bocal is very different from most modern designs in that it has a far greater internal volume (larger bore) that produces a much brighter sound, is much more free blowing, and gives a high register that speaks very easily and is very flexible. The downside to this bocal is that the bottom fifth is sharper and it is so flexible that some notes (third octave) can tend to sail. The thick wall variation does improve the compromise.

Price:
$650.00 Canadian (shipping included)


Contra Bassoon Bocals
We currently supply a CC-type bocal for the contra bassoon in both thin and thick wall construction.


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