How Much Does a Bassoon Cost?

Last Updated on July 11, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

With its distinct low register and broad range, the bassoon holds an important role in orchestras, bands, chamber groups, and other ensembles. However, purchasing a quality bassoon requires a substantial investment.

By understanding the myriad factors impacting costs, you can find an instrument well-matched to both your playing needs and budget. This comprehensive guide will examine new and used bassoon pricing in detail, additional ownership expenses, tips for maximizing value, and strategies to make bassoons more affordable.

The bassoon’s singing tenor voice and uncommon dual reed design make it an essential part of diverse musical groups. With dedicated practice, musicians can master this challenging woodwind and unlock the immense satisfaction it brings. While potentially expensive upfront, various tiered options exist to make bassoons financially accessible for developing student players. Let’s closely explore how to find the ideal bassoon for your goals and wallet through informed research and budgeting.

How Much Does a Bassoon Cost?

The costs of a bassoon can range from $2,000 for an affordable student model to $50,000+ for the finest professional bassoons from luxury makers.

Student Bassoons – Typically inexpensive plastic resin or composite models aimed at beginners, often from Asian mass manufacturers. Prices range from $2,000-$5,000. Offer basic functionality to learn on but sound quality and projection are limited.

Step-Up/Intermediate Bassoons – A level above entry student models, with wooden construction instead of composite materials. Usually handmade in Asia or Eastern Europe. Improved materials, projection, and tone over plastics. Priced around $5,000-$10,000.

Conservatory Bassoons – Traditionally crafted bassoons usually made in Germany by reputable brands. Better quality components with improved tonal clarity and projection. Around $8,000-$15,000.

Professional Bassoons – Handcrafted wood instruments made by top European workshops and brands with premium materials, acoustic engineering, sound projection, and exquisite detailing. Starting around $12,000, ranging up to $50,000+. Considered investments for lifelong playing.

Used and vintage instruments are also available across the tiers at discounted prices but require careful inspection and trial playing.

At Midwest Musical Imports the cost of a bassoon typically ranges from $3,000 for student models to over $20,000 for professional models.

At Charles Double Reed Company prices vary widely based on condition and model, generally ranging from $2,000 for student bassoons to $25,000 or more for professional models.

Forrests Music offers a range of bassoons, with student models starting around $2,000 and professional models reaching $30,000 or more.

At Reverb, prices vary widely depending on seller and condition, with student models starting around $1,000 and professional models exceeding $20,000.

Factors Influencing the Costs

• Craftsmanship reputation and quality control of the established bassoon manufacturer or workshop
• Made-to-order customization available with premium woods and personalized artisanal detailing, which significantly increases cost
• The number of keys – from 8 on basic models to 10 or more on professional orchestral bassoons
• Intricate hand finishing like engraving, carved figurines, gold plating, and wood treatments
• The type, density, and curing process of the various aged wood materials like maple, palisander, or grenadilla
• Collectability and provenance of vintage bassoons from respected historical makers in playable condition

As with other finely hand-crafted instruments, the materials selected and attention to construction detail largely determine price tiers and ranges.

Professional Quality Bassoon Costs

The finest professional grade bassoons handmade by elite European workshops like Fox Products, Moosmann, Püchner, and Heckel command premium pricing, generally starting around the $12,000+ range, often reaching $30,000 to $50,000+ for the highest precision detail and acoustic quality.

Optional customization like extra keys, premium aged woods, personalized artistry can further drive costs higher. These instruments are true lifetime investments.

New Student and Intermediate Level Bassoons

You might also like our articles about the cost of a trombone, saxophone, or tuba.

Brand new mass-produced bassoons for beginners and progressing students generally cost between $2,000 to $10,000. Very basic starter bassoons made from composite plastics imported from Asia to enable affordable access for new players run around $4,000-$5,000. Step-up wooden intermediate bassoons improving on entry versions with better construction and materials imported from Asia or Eastern Europe normally cost $7,000-$10,000. These are recommended for dedicated developing players.

Used and Vintage Bassoons

Previously owned “used” bassoons often start around $2,000 and may top out around $15,000 for professional versions from respected brands in excellent condition. High-end professionals and orchestra musicians may sell retired bassoons after many years of use.

Older vintage models from renowned historical makers regularly sell between $5,000-$12,000+ depending on condition and collectability. As with any used instrument purchase, extensive trial playing and certification inspection from a technician are strongly advised before buying. Reputable music shops will thoroughly vet bassoons before reselling.

Additional Equipment Expenses

• Bassoon Reeds – $20 to $40+ per reed, replaced frequently
• Bocal (mouthpiece) – $200 to $2,000 for handmade
• Neck Strap – $20 for basic leather, $100+ for premium comfort straps
• Maintenance Kit – $100+ for cleaning brushes, swabs, lubricants
• Seat Strap – $50 to $200+ depending on materials
• Cane Rest – $100 to $200 for hand support and posture during playing
• Case – $300 basic, $2,000+ for premium lightweight models
• Instrument Insurance – $100+ per year depending on coverage

The initial purchase price is just the beginning – ongoing proper bassoon maintenance, repairs, and accessories also require budgeting to protect the investment. But over decades of musical enjoyment and elevated performance, diligent care pays dividends.

Finding Affordable Bassoon Options

• Consider purchasing used student or step-up models first to start lessons, then upgrade to a professional bassoon later as skills progress
• Thoroughly search classified ads and used instrument marketplaces online or locally for pricing deals on pre-owned instruments
• Ask local music schools and universities if they have any discontinued previous rental stock bassoons for sale
• Negotiate on pricing and financing options with bassoon retailers willing to work out payment plans
• Apply for musical scholarships, education grants, and subsidized lesson programs to help with costs
• Take advantage of student and teacher discounts offered by some manufacturers and retailers

With consistent research and creativity, securing more budget-friendly deals on quality bassoons is very feasible. Cost alone does not need to discourage your musical journey playing this magical instrument.

Vintage and Used Instrument Purchases

• Extensive trial playing time is essential to assess used bassoon playability, sound quality, and mechanics before committing
• Clarify the exact model, serial number, year, and manufacturer to determine original pricing tier and value
• Carefully inspect joints, wood condition, and wear for any cracks, damage, or repairs needed
• Only purchase from reputable sellers who fully disclose condition details and offer servicing
• Confirm necessary maintenance and repairs upfront that may impact pricing
• Review included accessories like bocal, case, cover, and straps being provided as part of sale
• Compare real market prices on exact make and models through recent completed sales data

While cost-effective, extra caution is required when purchasing pre-owned bassoons sight-unseen online. In person inspections prove ideal whenever feasible.

Final Words

With its stirring voice spanning over four octaves, the bassoon represents a uniquely rewarding challenge for dedicated woodwind musicians. Thanks to a thriving marketplace of new and pre-owned instruments at varied price levels from mass manufacturers and artisanal workshops, the deep satisfaction of bassoon playing can be financially attainable at all levels.

By carefully weighing desired features, bargain shopping online and locally, taking advantage of affordable learner models, and budgeting for accessories and maintenance, you can make owning this specialized instrument a reality. Your musical dreams need not be limited by financial resources when passion is present.

Frequently Asked Questions

How high can a bassoon play?

Most bassoons can produce written musical pitches ranging from the Bb1 note up to the E5 note. However, the specific range depends on the instrument’s capabilities and the player’s skill. Advanced bassoons and artists may exceed these typical boundaries.

How much does it cost to fix a bassoon?

Common bassoon maintenance like pad replacements, reaming and profiling, tenon adjustments, and double reed adjustments average $80-$150 for minor repairs, but extensive overhauls can reach $500+. Regular professional servicing prevents bigger issues.

How often should a bassoon be serviced?

Many professionals recommend bringing bassoons in for servicing every 6 months to 1 year of regular use. This ensures optimal playability, prevents wear issues, keeps the wood in ideal condition, and extends the instrument’s usable lifespan. Cleaning kits help with daily upkeep.