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Re: reed making

Author: jhoyla
Date: 2009-02-14 16:14

There are plenty of fine (historical) examples of great, professional oboists who did not spend their time reedmaking. When I was learning in the UK this was the rule rather than the exception. You developed a relationship with your reedmaker who would learn to make reeds that suited you, to order.

I make reeds because it is my cheapest option, and I won't compromise on quality. Sure, my yield is low - but by my reckoning I'm still getting reeds at half-price or less when I factor in shipping, raw materials and all other expenses.

Problem is that you have to fill a wash basket full of bad reeds before you start making reeds reliably and well; It's a completely different skill set from actually playing the oboe; and it takes lots of time.

If all you have is one hour a day and you can afford to buy two reeds a month, that would be my recommendation. Make sure you always have one new reed in reserve, one that is past its prime but still working well, and one that is played in for performance, and you should not have problems.

J.

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