Reeds

 

 A playable reed is probably the most important factor in producing a good tone.  The preferences one has are very personal.  What works well for one player may not be the best for another.

The number of good reeds I get directly from a box of reeds is usually in the range of three to five from a box of ten.  That average is better than the two (or less) out of ten I was getting with my former brand. (email me and I'll tell what brand that was).

With the number of unusable I pay for and never play, I'm just grateful that reed manufacturers don't make elevators or parachutes.

Here are my current favorites.

For Clarinet :         

Rico Grand Concert Select (thick blank), Rico Evolution, Legere Synthetic

For. Saxophone :       

Rico Jazz Select,  La Voz Cool Jazz,  Fibracell Synthetic

Using a reed holder (such as the Vandoren Reed Case) that allows the reeds to dry out gradually is a must.  These have lengthened my reed's lifespan greatly.  If I just leave a reed on the mouthpiece and let it dry out, it will never play properly again, but it does make good kindling for my fireplace.

Reed suggestions for beginners    Working with a reed knife    How to test for reed balance   

Reed placement

   send E-mail to Scott@ThePrevailingWinds.com

back to The Prevailing Winds

back to Scott Harris