THE KRONER 450 BASSOON

Fred Marrich
Custom Music Company, Inc.
Ferndale, Michigan 48220

Dear Fred:

Thought you would like to know how I feel about the Kroner 450C Bassoon that I purchased from you this January 2004. I still am getting accustomed to some of the key positions as I anticipated, but I already see many advantages for me. I chose this instrument because of the sound and features per dollar advantages I saw. This was not an easy decision since I tested the models of our fine domestic manufacturer and also two other German Bassoons, one of which was several thousands more in actual selling price. I had two friends, whom I trust for their expert opinions, evaluate the instrument. One is a long time teacher of Bassoon and principle at a local middle school, the other a PhD in Bassoon who has played in several professional orchestras and once work several years for the domestic Bassoon manufacturer. Both of these men were impressed, had glowing remarks and gave me the recommendation to buy.

Let me be more technical about why I am happy with this instrument. First of all, the tone is dark, rich and projecting. Intonation is nicely even over my range of B flat to High C sharp and when it may vary I find it is the reed and my embouchure which needs adjusting. High notes are very clear and easy to play. The 450 is slightly smaller than my other Bassoon and I find my smaller hands easily reach all the keys including the A flat trill key. This was a critical buying issue for me when comparing with other manufactures. This instrument has additional trill keys for C sharp, B flat, E flat, F sharp, and F to G. These trill keys give me the alternate fingerings that provide flexibility and capability found on only the finer instruments. Three Bocals come with this instrument, but I find the longer, #4, most useful with the reeds I use. Finish on this instrument is as beautiful as any I have seen. Keywork is solid and feature rich. My instrument, for example, has eleven rollers and also cork pads where the best instruments have them. This is not an assembly line instrument!

I recommend this instrument for almost any level of player because of its quality and price. There are features that a beginning student wouldn't use immediately, but would appreciate in time. The quality of this fine German instrument would, in my opinion, accelerate the progress of any student. I am a beyond college, intermediate player in a community orchestra who finds this instrument meeting all my present and anticipated needs. I try to play it daily.

Richard Collins