 The Doublers BBoard
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Author: kfrank1
Date: 2008-04-18 06:55
I'm considering taking up double reeds (oboe, english horn, bassoon) at some stage depending on available time. One thing that is putting me off is the thought of having to make your own reeds in addition to the extra time you have to spend practising.
Especially for those in which double reeds are a secondary double and not your main instrument, do you:
a) Make your own
b) Buy handmade reeds and maybe finish them
c) Buy stock reeds
d) Other?
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Author: Jaysne
Date: 2008-04-21 01:21
After playing the single reed horns for years, I began the double reeds in earnest about three years ago, and now play all three instruments.
I've learned to avoid store-bought reeds at all costs. Instead, I buy the handmade kind and adjust them as necessary (actually, my teachers adjust them for me!).
I got together with a retired oboe player recently and he took me under his wing to show me how to make reeds. I started and got interested in it, but, as you say, the lack of time has hindered my progress.
But for now, I'm happy with the handmade ones I've purchased.
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Author: oboeidaho
Date: 2008-04-21 17:04
My main instrument is oboe, so I do make my own; but I can't imagine a ww doubler having the time to spend on making oboe reeds. I have my students buy reeds (I don't have time to make all their reeds), and I adjust them as necessary. I won't tolerate "mass produced" reeds. Pay a few more bucks and get some decent reeds from a real reed-maker. Many reed makers are available, here is one site where you can read reviews by players (keep in mind some players will be 6th graders, so don't write off reeds based on one review).
http://reedreviews.net/
This is informational only, but at least you can get some idea from the various reviews - as well as delivery time expectations. The best would be to get a local pro to make you reeds, but that is not always possible.
Good luck!
jc
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Author: Bret Pimentel
Date: 2008-04-21 18:58
The better I get at playing the oboe (slowly but surely!), the more I can't imagine NOT making my own reeds. There is definitely a time commitment involved, and some initial financial outlay (which makes up for itself pretty quickly). But I think most oboists reach a point where they can play better on their own reeds than on anybody else's, no matter how fine.
If you're trying to commit minimal time to the oboe (depends on your priorities), then purchased, handmade reeds may be your best bet. But if you're looking to take your oboe playing to the next level, then reedmaking is a must.
Bret
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Author: johnnymo0829
Date: 2008-05-06 13:20
Nothing beats a hand made reed for tone and stability. I have found that of the store brands the only one that was tollerable if you need to go that way is the jones brand. I can play on them with minimal work to them and the play fairly well for what they are. I insist that my students play on them since I don't trust other brands.
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