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Re: Low Register Problem

Author: sylvangale
Date: 2006-04-05 17:35

No, one should not use plyers to adjust the reed opening as it distorts the staple. If absolutely necessary do it with a mandrel in place.

Reeds are generally wide open when new and as you break them in will close or people pinch the tips to speed up the process so that they are comfortable to play on.

There comes a point either because the reed is too soft or it is getting to long on age at which point the optimal reed opening closes even further to where the lower range is inhibited and one must use some embouchure gymnastics if they want to continue using the reed.

Now, just as people pinch reeds closed you can also pinch them open. Which is really temporory as the reed will have the tendancy to close back up, BUT any sound issues due to the tip opennig being too closed will obviously be seen.

Reed wire which is seldom used in oboe reeds is a safer more reliable way to open reeds without distorting the tube. It can be placed on the reed when first made and when the reed ages and begins to collapse the wire can be adjusted so that the opening opens to the desired position, extending the life of a good reed. One can add/remove wire easily when needed or not or simply loosen the wire or slide it down to the bottom of the reed to completely disable.

I strongly suspect that because Rico reeds are the only student reed maker that uses wires people are put off by them, but Meg Cassell (goodtoneguild) does make use of them and her reeds are rather nice.

Regards,
Stephen
Los Angeles, CA

(edit: grammar! bah)

♫ Stephen K.

Post Edited (2006-04-05 20:02)

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