Ever wondered what that exotic white ring waving above the orchestra was - halo, chimney pot, game of quoits?

The Bassoon - 2.4 metres of character which cannot be ignored. If you must be the centre of the action then this is the instrument for you. Bass, melody and everything in between, makes this the busiest woodwind, always in demand.

Join the lower strings, provide the foundation for the woodwind, add boldness to the brass. Paint characters from Grandfather in "Peter and the Wolf" to the "happy" Scotsman in Arnold's "Scottish Dances" and "sing" the greatest melodies ever written for the woodwind equivalent of Bryn Terfel. Three and a half octaves of sheer beauty from the dark sonorities of the deepest notes, through the warm singing tones of the middle register, to the haunting lonely strains of the highest range.

This is the ultimate challenge in orchestral playing, leading to the greatest rewards for your efforts. Promotion is rapid, demand high, commitment essential. Join the special group of individuals who are privileged to play the noblest of instruments.

Hire is usually extended beyond the first year, in recognition of the cost of purchasing these instruments. Pupils will need to purchase reeds, (reeds costing $20-$40 last one to two months), periodically.