Klarinet Archive - Posting 000656.txt from 1995/12

From: Bill Fogle <bfogle@-----.EDU>
Subj: Re: Reed Lifetime
Date: Tue, 26 Dec 1995 15:32:00 -0500

I am seeking ideas on prolonging the lifetimes of clarinet reeds.
This subject has intrigued me for some time and I am planning some
exploratory research in the area. I am considering the possibility of
investigating this by a laser desorption spectroscopic technique. This
could result in a correlation of reed treatments and " reed lifetime".
Most of the published data in this area that I am aware of are subjective
evaluations---very little quantitative information seems to be out there.
Therefore, if you have a favorite technique (reed treatment) let me know.
Also, I would appreciate any references to literature on this
subject---particularly quantitative studies.
By the way I am a Professor of Organic Chemistry at the University
of California, Irvine and have been a serious clarinetist for most of my
life. Thanks much. Hal Moore
***************************************

I recently instigated a brief discussion of the topic of reed life
in this forum. I made a note of each reply, and most suggested that
polishing reeds extended their life significantly. I began immediately to
polish the reeds in the manner suggested. I began this process on reeds
which were already in use by me (I rotate a case of five reeds). The
polishing (done on the mid-life reeds) has not eliminated the qualities of
deterioration I associate with dying reeds. Therefore, I will not
accurately know my results until I begin the process with new reeds.
It is my observation that all the discussions published about reed
techniques are subjective. I have Brymer's book, O. Lee Gibson, and all
the other texts [I don't have names with me] I could get my hands on and in
each the care and treatment of reeds is addressed with the same deference
to personal experience. The skeleton "facts" if there are any seem to be:
1. Break in *very* gradually; 2. sand modestly and test after each pass; 3.
store properly. Even the sacred sanding the back and polishing are *not*
common to all sources. Brymer says that polishing the back of the reed
causes saliva to bubble during performance. I agree somewhat. Yet back
polishing to deter absorption of salivia would appear crucial. What to do?
Storage techniques differ.
Good luck to you in your research. I believe every clarinetist
is engaged in the same research. Anyway---please forward your results!!!!
Best wishes.