Article: Contrabassoons
Contrabassoons
MMI loves contras! Because of the brands we work with, we have access to a large variety of different contrabassoons. However, please understand that we rarely have instruments in stock.
MMI will custom order contras from any of our manufacturers. Please contact us to inquire about this. All makers have some amount of customizability for their contrabassoons.
Fox
Fox is the only domestic manufacturer of contras. They also lead the industry in terms of quality and overall customization. The models Fox offers have the same option set. It is easy to customize a Fox contrabassoon to your needs. Please inquire with us to learn about the full option list and recommendations.
900: The classic Fox instrument, made with the same wood used for the Renard artist models. You can find these contras in schools and orchestras all over the US.
920: A recent addition to the Fox lineup, this model is made with the same wood as the professional Fox bassoons. The sound is warmer and fuller.
Püchner
Püchner contrabassoons are not as well-known in the US, but their quality is undeniable. They have a rich, full sound and huge dynamic range. Püchner does not have as much room for customization in their instruments, but they come pre-built with a lot of useful key work and plenty of rollers.
Model 28: A classic contrabassoon for the modern age. Deep, warm sound, and available in classic, traditional, or antique finish.
Model 125: Named to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the company, the Püchner Model 125 features a redesigned key layout, especially for the left thumb. This ergonomic system has a layout more closely aligned with bassoon key work, and feels very comfortable. Still the same sound the Püchner is known for, just easier to wield and play!
Kronwalt
The Kronwalt contrabassoon represents a leap forward in the overall design of the instrument. Taking inspiration from the contraforte, the Kronwalt contrabassoon features a modified bore and specialized key work. This extends the range of the instrument by about a fifth, and adds a richer sonority especially to the "tenor" range of the instrument. It has a tonal clarity not seen in standard contrabassoons.
The other unique aspect of the Kronwalt contra is the "compact" design. Using a brace, the lowest third of the instrument cane be removed for easier transport. This actually makes the instrument fit in a case that can be stored in the overhead compartment of most large commercial airplanes!
Contraforte
Made by Wolf in collaboration with Benedikt Eppelsheim, the contraforte is a bottom-up reimagining of the contrabassoon. It is much louder, more sonorous, and can easily penetrate in the largest of orchestras. It also has a much-extended range, playing from A0 to about C5, using an innovative series of flageolet cables.
The contraforte has a different bore design and uses different reeds. As a result, many players consider this a different instrument from the contrabassoon. In Europe, it is gaining popularity as a replacement for the contrabassoon in orchestras, as well as finding use in new music ensembles. Many composers are writing scores specifically with this instrument in mind. In the US, it has seen some use in major orchestras, but has seen a particular niche in professional concert band settings. Its penetrating sound blends particular well with brass.
