Vintage Moennig "Artist Model" Bassoon with High D Key, Late 1940s-Early 1950's; serial #9450
Our records show that we sold this good vintage bassoon to an adult amateur, about twenty years ago. We've recently re-acquired it, have replaced all pads and corks and put a new and clean case with it.
Moennig instruments are still in production in Markneukirchen and are today considered a credible option for advanced, amateur and semi-pro players. We note the suggested selling price for their basic bassoon is now a bit above $16,000.
Our bassoon was originally imported to the US by the Baxter-Northrup company, in California. As we've been told, one of the owners of the firm was a cousin of the Moennigs.
It is stamped "Artist Model" and we believe that indicates it was offered as a step or two above the basic instruments.Our bassoon does have silver-plated keywork, wears brass tenon-caps and brass socket liners.
We see no wood rot, no serious issues anywhere. The original large tenon to the long joint has an older crack repair to the wood, now repaired and almost invisible.
We've posted this good bassoon with two new Heckel crooks, it being our opinion that it really sings with Heckel bocals. This bassoon also comes with a new case.
For those who already have existing bocals, the price without those two pieces could be lower. Basic Fox or Schreiber bocals (new) are also possible, for a much lower figure.
Bottom line is that it's a good vintage instrument that's in fine condition and gets our top recommendation.
***GR/Wichita
HG