So you're skeptical about that too huh Rick?

Tell you the truth, nobody is likely to see that buried in here with skeptical zithers.......Try and start the thread anyway and screw the flamer crap. Itsa legit question and damn few are going to see it here.

Bassoons have (depending on the maker) 10-17 keys operated by your left thumb. They are not used constantly and basoonists learn to get around them as needed. Its always a stretch though and especially in tricky parts in the higher register. I saw Sherman Walt on tour from Boston with symphonies around the US in the 60's and had the chance to watch him from backstage, hence behind, as he did a Vivaldi (Conc. in F, I think....too long) and I was amazed at the speed and dexterity of his left thumb. Afterwards he greeted some of us (Youth Symphony members who acted as ushers and aids) and I asked if he were double jointed. He answered no, just practiced a lot. Again I'm skeptical that he didn't have something weird about the tendons of ligaments of something.

Spaw