The French bassoon differs from the

The French bassoon differs from the German in bore, disposition of tone holes and system of keywork (see fig.1). In
general it has retained the basic design of the early bassoon, in contrast to the reformed Almenraeder instrument
with its low-register open holes enlarged, increased in number and placed further down the bore. Formerly in
common use throughout the non-German-speaking world, it has since the 1930s been replaced by the German
model. There is controversy over their respective merits – the light, free tone quality of the French contrasts with the
dark homogeneousness of the German. However, much depends on the style of playing and of the reed chosen by
the individual player. In general the German instrument may be considered ‘safer’ and easier to control for the
player