The bassoon is made of wood, with metal valve mechanism. The sound is produced by a double reed. Originally the bassoon was introduced to the symphony orchestra to double the cellos. The bassoon sounds two octaves lower than oboe. Its playing technique is similar to oboe and they are practically interchangeable to the performer.

The contrabassoon sounds an octave lower than written and is not as dexterous as the bassoon.

Its sound is in the lower register is very rich and broad, while the higher register has a thinner and more difficult sound. Works well for legato and staccato purposes.

Recommended combinations:

Contrabassoon with flute
Contrabassoon with oboe (cor anglais)
Contrabassoon with muted brass
Contrabassoon with strings, especially viola and contrabass

Problematic combinations:

Bassoon with clarinet (may result in tunnel-effect sound)

Listen to the audio samples: