Editing Contrabassoon (section)

== Differences from the bassoon ==
The [[Reed (mouthpiece)|reed]] is considerably larger than the bassoon's, at {{convert|65|–|75|mm|abbr=on}} in total length (and {{convert|20|mm|1|abbr=on}} in width) compared with {{convert|53|–|58|mm|abbr=on}} for most bassoon reeds. The large blades allow ample vibration that produces the low register of the instrument. The contrabassoon reed is similar to an average bassoon's in that scraping the reed affects both the [[Intonation (music)|intonation]] and response of the instrument.
<ref>'''INCONIS, The Contrabassoon:''' ''Contrabassoon Reeds page 204 / Reed Manual page 207''</ref>

Contrabassoons feature a slightly simplified version of bassoon keywork, though all open toneholes on bassoon have necessarily been replaced with keys and pads due to the physical distances. In the lower [[Register (music)|register]], its [[Fingering (music)|fingerings]] are nearly identical to bassoon. However, the octave mechanism used to play in the middle register works differently than on bassoon, and the upper register fingerings are often completely unrelated.

The instrument is twice as long as the bassoon, curves around on itself twice and, due to its weight and shape, is supported by an [[endpin]] rather than a seat strap. Additional support is sometimes provided by a strap around the player's neck. A wider hand position is also required, as the primary finger keys are widely spaced. The contrabassoon has a [[water key]] to expel condensation and a tuning slide for gross pitch adjustments. The instrument comes in a few pieces (plus [[bocal]]); some models cannot be disassembled without a screwdriver. Sometimes, the bell can be detached, and instruments with a low A [[Extension (music)|extension]] often come in two parts.