As student instruments go, this is quite a good instrument. It produces quite a nice sound, and goes up to high E flat very easily (although no further). It is a great instrument for a beginner (although the reach in the right hand is a little long).

However, it is very difficult to play in tune on it - even at A = 442, I always found I was sharp. It serves well as a student instrument, and will get a student as far as Grade 8, although not much further. Obviously it doesn't compare to professional instruments by better makers, but for a beginner or young student on a budget, it is an ideal instrument.

The case that this instrument (and all Schreiber bassoons) comes in is, unfortunately, no good for protecting the instrument. The bassoon constantly rattles around in the case, and I always had to put a thick cloth in between the bassoon and the front of the case. However, there is a lot of decent storage space in the case, and backstraps for carrying it.