Hi. We are new to the bassoon, but my middle school child seems to really enjoy it. The school instrument he borrows plays rather poorly, so we are thinking of buying him one. Of course, the cost is a factor, but we also don't want to spend a lot of money on an instrument that isn't going to last long (or drive him crazy from being a poor instrument). So, does anyone have suggestions for a reasonable instrument for him? One that sounds decent, but doesn't break the bank? Plastic or wood? Is the student bassoon sufficient?

Also, we happen to be going to Germany this summer. Any reason we should buy one there? If so, where?

Thanks!

Does your child have a bassoon teacher? This will be the best person to advise on a bassoon. Sometimes school instruments play badly but need only a repad or other repair to get them into shape and perhaps the school could be persuaded to do this. Is there a university in your town? The music dept. there will have a bassoon teacher who could advise on choices for buying. Is there a community orchestra or band in town? There might be a bassoonist there. These people never mind being asked for advice. The point is, it's essential, especially for a child whose interests might change, to get the advice of someone who can evaluate the situation personally.

I agree totally with Drew - don't just go out & buy a bassoon, even a new, one without the possibility of getting it evaluated first. When buying instruments from abroad be aware that you could have difficulties should any problems arise with it - warranty work will only be done by the store that sold it to you.