The length of its tube is approximately 2.5 meters; it is doubled back on itself, thus becoming 137 cm. long. The Bassoon is
The Double Bassoon is a tube which is nearly 5 meters in length; it is folded four times, thus arriving at the length of 145 cm. If the Piccolo produces the highest notes in the symphonic orchestra, the Double Bassoon can produce the deepest and lowest sounds in the orchestra (at least a whole tone below the lowest tone of the 5 string Double Bass). It plays an octave lower than the regular Bassoon, and is usually used to reinforce the Double Bass parts. It also functions as Bass for chords which are played by the brass section. Since it duplicates the technique of the Bassoon (only an octave lower), one of the Bassoon players can play the Double Bassoon when needed.
The four parallel, folded wooden tubes are attached to one other by the butt and two U-joints. The instrument terminates in a brass bell that points downwards (while the bell of the Bassoon points upwards). Because of its great weight, the Double Bassoon is supported by a peg on the floor.
The Double Bassoon is a transposing instrument and its music is written an octave higher than its sounding, thus avoiding, as much as possible, leger lines.
The tone of the Double Bassoon has a dark, growling quality and is, relatively, slightly rougher than that of the Bassoon. Although the lower range of the instrument is the most useful, it requires much breath from the player. Any composer writing for the Double Bassoon should include enough rests for the player, in order to allow him time to regain his breath.
Beethoven uses the Double Bassoon in his Fifth and Ninth Symphonies.
