Author: ohsuzan
Date: 2005-09-09 13:26
But we make a false dichotomy when we insist that the only alternatives are machine-made, "store bought" reeds on the one hand, and self-made, on the other.
Perhaps in the pre-Internet days, it was nigh unto impossible to locate a good -- and I mean, really good -- reedmaker for oneself. But today, there is no end to the truly excellent reeds available from makers across the U.S. I don't know if the same is true in Europe and Asia, but it is patently true for the U.S.
As I have previously mentioned, after trying several good makers, I have found one maker whose reeds consistently work for me. I order about every two months, and as many as six at a time, depending on my playing schedule. There is naturally some variation among these reeds -- some are miraculous as found, some need a tweak or two, and there have been one or two duds (out of the many that I have received). This is not unlike what one would expect in making their own reeds, I think. Or better.
The good news is that my reedmaker will accept the return of any reed which does not please (actually, he just makes a couple more and sends them to me).
Contrary to being a limiting factor in my playing, these reeds have enabled a quantum leap my flexibility and tone, and have allowed me to become known in my community as a fine oboist. I can only shudder to think where I would be if I were trying, as a relative newbie, to make my own!
Susan
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