Basset Horn in F c.1800 after Johann Heinrich Grenser

Hakam Din Basset Horn in F is based on the original instrument by Johann Heinrich Wilhelm Grenser of Dresden, preserved in the Bate Collection of Musical Instruments, University of Oxford, Catalogue No. 489. Our instrument has been made using the original Bate Collection technical drawings as the historical basis, while incorporating several practical modifications for modern performance and chromatic playing.

The original Grenser basset horn is a late-18th-century instrument with six upper keys and two basset keys extending the range to D and C.

Our reproduction retains the characteristic construction and appearance of the historical instrument while adding two additional basset keys for Eb and C#, making the lower register fully chromatic i.e. Eb, D, C#, C. 

In addition to the chromatic low-note mechanism, we have added a low B tone hole, which is closed by the player's leg to produce the low B. Together with the additional Eb and C# basset keys, this provides an extended, fully chromatic lower range beyond the original configuration.

It is built in modern concert pitch with two barrels, one for A=440 Hz and one for A=442 Hz, making it suitable for use with modern ensembles and instruments while retaining the distinctive character and historical concept of the Grenser basset horn.

It is designed to be used with a standard modern Bb clarinet mouthpiece. The barrel receiver is tailored to accommodate modern Bb clarinet mouthpieces, including the Vandoren B45.

The instrument is crafted in Indian Cocobolo wood, with hand-carved key blocks and brass fittings for the basset keys, the rings are individually hand-crafted from imitation Ivory. A round brass bell is used in place of the original oval bell of Bate Collection.

The keys are cast in brass and left in its original finish, fitted with a brass pins, steel springs, and leather pads. The basset horn comes complete with a fingering chart, care instructions, a care kit and a case.

Additional Keywork: If you would like extra keys installed on your basset horn, please contact us to discuss the available options.

Waiting time is 60 days.