The bassoon is a woodwind instrument known for its distinctive, rich sound. It is made of wood and has a long, slender body with a double reed mouthpiece. The bassoon is played by blowing air through the reeds, which vibrate to produce sound. It typically has a range of about three and a half octaves. In orchestras, the bassoon often plays harmony and bass lines, complementing other instruments. It is also featured in chamber music and solo performances. The instrument is an essential part of the orchestra and contributes to the overall texture of classical music.