If you have ever listened to The Nutcracker you might recognize the sound of a bassoon in the beginning, a deep low blat. It adds to the sound of the band or orchestra it is in. The bassoon uses a double-reed, along with the English horn, and oboe. It is the second largest wood wind. A stretched out bassoon measures more than nine feet long. To make the person playing it easier, the bassoon folds back onto it self making it half the length. On the bassoon is a crook in which the double reed is fastened to. The bassoon is also heavy so attached is a neck strap so the player can support the instrument. The range for this instrument is over three tonal octaves. The bassoon can play rich, deep tones and also funny, quick, crisp tones. The bassoon is also known as "the clown of the orchestra". The double bassoon is twice as long as the regular bassoon and folds onto itself four times! The double bassoon is also called the contra bassoon. It also has a crook but it is twice as long as the regular bassoon's. The tubing of the contra bassoon is so long, that makes the sound extra course and deep. It is used to reinforce other deep-toned instruments. But sometimes it is called on for solo playing.