For most freeway philharmonic players the job is in a different venue each week and students are spread over a few cities. So everyone needs a good bag to hold their tools and equipment in. The bags that I use have to be able to hold a bag of reed tools, three reed cases, a bassoon stand and a contra stand, sheet music (without bending) and random small tuner/metronome stuff. Here are a few awesome gig bags that I recommend.

Timbuk 2

These bags are customizable by size and color. I have the large messenger bag and it fits everything I need. It’s pretty cheap so I use it for everyday stuff. The only drawback is that it isn’t always in the right style for an evening gig, with a tux or suit jacket.

 

Fred Perry

 

Fred Perry bags are PVC (vinyl) so they are easier to clean. The style is also more professional looking so it’s more appropriate for gigging. In San Francisco drizzle this is water proof.

 

Marc Jacobs

 

This is my regular teaching bag, I keep scale sheets, a reed case full of blanks and my old school metronome in it. It’s small but still fits a folding bassoon stand.

 

Louis Vuitton

The keepall 55 is the best bag for when I double on bassoon and contra. This fits two instrument stands and all the stuff I need with them. It’s pricey, but they last for years and Louis Vuitton repairs them cheaply.