Bassoon Embouchure

Question 1

High Pitched Crow with too few sounds

Answer 1

1. embouchure too tight or pinched ——decrease pressure in embouchure, more relaxed
2. reed too stiff or closed off - —– check thickness of reed, balance in cane

Question 2

Low Pitched Crow with too few sounds

Answer 2

1. Lack of air and embouchure support —– more support to dampen reed
2. Reed too long or wide —– change length and/or width of reed

Question 3

Unsupported sound on low F

Answer 3

1. lack of support from lower jaw —— slightly increase lower jaw support
2. Lack of air support —– use faster air stream. More support from diaphragm

Question 4

What causes a bassoon player to play sharp in general?

Answer 4

1. Reed too hard
2. Bocal too short
3. extra tension in shoulders

Question 5

What causes a bassoon player to play flat in general?

Answer 5

1. reed too soft
2. bocal too long
3. embouchure too relaxed