Author: cjwright
Date: 2007-10-29 16:42
I find d-oboe's statements very interesting as well, and while I agree with much of what he said, I differ on others.
"Generally though, reeds that are longer (but that are actually up to pitch) are more stable because less cane has been removed, therefore, it is more stable."
- This could depend entirely upon your setup. Different staples will have different affects (generally, the bigger the diameter, the higher in pitch, but less stable in the high register). The biggest factor is the gouge however. Some gouges in combination with tips can't and certainly don't work this way, and require more cane to be taken off because its too thick on the sides or the arch of the gouge curve is not correct. For a longer reed (i.e. 71 mm), I would certainly make sure the sides of the gouge are thin enough to vibrate well, but thick enough to support the upper register. (FYI, German style reeds use MUCH thinner sides than American reeds, which is why they vibrate throughout the entire reed despite not scraping much off)
"When reeds go shorter than 69mm, too much cane has to be removed to ensure correct response, and this sacrifices the intonation of the reed."
-Again, this depends on what kind of reed you're trying to make, but for a Philly style of reed (clarity, ring, overtones vs. lots of cover, darkness) this certainly isn't the case. Again, I believe the correct gouge is absolutely essential in order to get the correct proportions. If the gouge is too thick (particularly on the sides), then you certainly would have to take too much out of the reed, thus compromising the structural integrity of the reed.
Lastly, the length of reeds really depends upon your setup, embouchure, blowing, etc. If you take more reed in your mouth, perhaps you'll use a 70-71mm reed. If you play closer to the tip perhaps a 69-70mm reed. Lorees, Coveys, Laubins, and Yamahas are generally pitched lower than Marigauxs or Rigoutats so that will also affect your finished length.
From the way d-oboe explains his reed concept, I'd guess he uses thicker gouge on the sides than I do. Many people use Ross machines which tend to gouge thicker on the sides than an RDG. Graf machines can be set to just about any setting of thickness on the sides and center, as can an opus 1 machine.
CJW
cooperwrightreeds.com
Blog, An Oboe In Paradise
Solo Oboe, Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra
Post Edited (2007-10-29 16:51)
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