Author: WoodwindOz
Date: 2014-05-05 12:45
I am after some advice about my reedmaking...
Some of you may know my background, but for those who don't, I am a short scrape player based in Australia. I went to the US for a couple of years, where I learnt reedmaking techniques and applied them to my short scrape style. My reedmaking has both developed with my playing and helped me develop my playing, and we are a pretty good team right now.
Yesterday we had an oboe day hosted by ADRS and a local music store, held by a respected Aust. oboist and reedmaker. We all had the chance to make a reed from a blank, even the young students (and it was relatively successful, too - the kids had a ball). It seems my reedmaking style has developed to the point where I am 'doing it wrong'. The dominant style here is a very short, extremely thin tip, a longer U scrape (at least 12 mm) and a large definition between tip and heart. I have made three reeds closer to this definition now and I can make them functional immediately, but they definitely don't sound 'good'.
The style that has developed with me, for better or worse, is an almost chimney-like approach to the tip (I don't have an extremely thin centre of tip, sides are thinner than the centre), I take a little more out of the back (more defined U scrape) and thin the sides more. Basically, an inverted U (almost a V) at the top. I believe it is my style of tip which allows me to play on a slightly softer reed without compromising tone.
I have no trouble meeting any demands from any conductor. I can play very soft and project when needed. I can attack notes as requested and my low notes speak easily. I am consistently in tune and I am happy with my sound, which I am complimented on and blends well. My reeds suit me and my oboe.
But if perhaps this isn't the 'right way', should I be trying to change what I do to suit? I am not studying or have any desire to be 'professional', I am playing in community orchestras and bands, filling in spots in university ensembles as needed, playing in pits, etc. But I do teach. I have no issues adjusting reeds for students as needed, and I don't change the integrity of their reeds, but I am now more aware that my style is a little different.
Am I overthinking this? I guess I am having one of those 'why is this reed thing so hard' meltdowns.
Thank you for your honest opinions (and I apologise for the essay),
Rachel
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