As a young boy I enjoyed watching the TV cartoon "Hector's House". It had a theme tune played on this instrument, and my Dad (who had been an Army musician) would say how much he liked the instrument but that it was difficult to play. Some years later and first year of secondary (high) school, we were asked the question "Does anyone really want to play any particular instrument?" and I didn't hesitate. I've been playing ever since.
@peadar Joseph Castaldini, he is long gone now though, he was born in 1907. His Halle days were very early in his career. When he retired he and my auntie moved to Alicante in Spain, but returned to the UK to end their days at Ivor Newton House, a home for retired musicians. I believe the home closed shortly after my Auntie passed away.
@flowerfairyann Ann, as you can read above, it's a bassoon. Notable pieces of music which feature the bassoon include Peter and the Wolf (the grandfather), The Sorcerer's Apprentice, The Rite of Spring, Ivor The Engine and, of course, Hector's House!
