Author: Oboe Craig
Date: 2011-03-18 21:22
If I ever teach a beginner to make reeds again, or for that matter anyone at any level, the first thing I will do is ensure they master knife sharpening.
It will be painful for them, kinda like karate kid stuff.... on with the burr, off with the burr.
Minus that fundamental, reed making is really hard to do, and to learn.
I have never seen a demo or description that really teaches the trick/method of doing it, and I cannot do it myself without using my thumb-nail to test the burr. Testing on cane does not 'cut it' for me...:)
Sometimes its easy and a 5 minute problem and other times, I have to devote an hour to restoring the blade before happy with the burr.
And I have been doing this for over 40 years now.
Actually , I'm contemplating how to make a powered grinding machine that would satisfy beveled oboe reed knifes the way kitchen knifes get sharp so easily...
Anyone beats me to it, more power to all of us.
I am not exaggerating the importance of this to make a point... its the simple truth.
And getting it right soon as a priority will make wonderful differences to your reed-making life.
Since I started reed making the first year of study as a teen, I think I disagree thats too early to start, and I do agree learning to adjust and maintain (clean, care for, sanitize, etc.) is the correct first step with the reeds.
In case you are not a young person, oboe keeps us young at heart for life...
So, ![[toast]](http://test.woodwind.org/clarinet/BBoard/smileys/smiley15.gif)
If you are a young person, don't drink yet, so no toast for you.
Post Edited (2011-03-18 21:25)
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