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Re: Breaking in Bass Clarinet Reeds

Author: Ken Shaw ★2017
Date: 2003-03-27 13:53

cyso -

Larger reeds almost alwasy warp along the bottom, making the edges higher than the middle. This absolutely ruins the response. I'm not sure why it's worse than on smaller reeds -- perhaps because the larger bark-covered area doesn't expand and forces the reed to swell downward.

At any rate, I've found that it's essential to flatten the bottoms of bass (and contra) reeds. I use a very large (2-1/2" wide) fine cut flat file, but 400 grit wet-or-dry (black coat) sandpaper on a flat surface also works well.

Put your fingers only on the bark and the very top of the vamp and press fairly hard. Work until the bottom is shiny all over. Then press lightly and work the area toward the tip. Then find a newspaper page with a display ad that has lots of white space. Cut out a piece without any printing and give the bottom of the reed a final polish. (A plain cardboard postcard also works well.)

To leave room for this work, I buy bass and contra reeds one or even two strengths stronger than I play.

Best regards.

Ken Shaw

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