Fagotto (Bassoon)

The fagotto or bassoon is a wind musical instrument which belongs to the oboe family. It made its appearance for the first time in the second half of the 16th century; from the 18th century its worth was recognised by the great classical composers and its use as a solo musical instrument was propagated.

During the following centuries the instrument underwent modifications in order to be included in the orchestra family, due to the large range of tone colour it can produce.

Its range exceeds three octaves and demonstrates a great variation in its sound, which is considered darker and more melodic in the lower and mid-range notes and woeful in the Advanced.

Its additional cheerful timbre inspired many composers to use the fagotto in order to provide a comedic expression.

Although the original instruments were made out of the hardest qualities of wood, maple is the wood traditionally used for its manufacture.

The study of the fagotto is recognised by the State and affords its students a Certificate and Diploma. Duration of tuition is 7 years for the Certificate and the Diploma or 9 years for the Diploma, if a Certificate is previously obtained.

The classes, specifically, are as follows:

The student may directly obtain a Diploma in the fourth year of the Advanced Class or opt for the Certificate first in the third year of the Advanced class and a Diploma two years later.