Around the middle of the century the pitch started to rise towards the classical era and C.A. Grenser was well know for his instruments.

The Grenser is a different story. Robin Howell, who played first bassoon with the Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra in San Francisco, bought the original on one of his trips to Europe. A very fine instrument, that had all the playing characteristics of a baroque bassoon with one extra 5th key for low Eb, but on a classical pitch of 430 Hz. We commissioned Michael Hubbert, one of the most extraordinary craftsman, then working with flute builder Rod Cameron in Mendocino, to make a pair of replicas for us to safe the original from too much playing. They turned out great. I've played most Mozart operas on it and with a second wing joint I also play it at modern pitch.