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reed is the generator of all vibration and thus sound from a woodwind
instrument and is crucial in determining the type and quality of
sound produced. They are produced from cane, which is meticulously
cut and shaved to precise dimensions to produce a reed of a specific
cut or strength. The main makers are Rico (based in California) and
Vandoren (based in the South of France) who between them make the
majority of the world's reeds. |
Double & Single
Reeds
Reeds can be divided into two distinct categories. "Single reeds" are
used for clarinet and saxophone where only one piece of reed is held onto
the mouthpiece with a ligature.
"Double reeds" are used with oboes and bassoons. Here two pieces of
cane are bound together. |
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Single
Reeds
The single reed can be divided into different parts. This picture shows
the separate parts of the reed and the different "cuts" for two
types of Vandoren clarinet reeds. |
Reed
Strength
Reeds are graded in strengths (1 being soft, 5 being hard). The stronger
the reed being the thicker and harder the cane is. Most student players
start on a soft reed - as it allows for easy tone production without the
need for a strong embouchure. Stronger reeds require a more developed technique
but produce a much greater tonal and dynamic range. |
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Reed
Cuts
Different reed makes are cut (or profiled) to different dimensions to aid
particular playing styles. For example the Vandoren Java saxophone reeds
were developed specifically for jazz players and are cut with a long flexible
tip, allowing vibration across a large surface area. |
Choosing
a reed
Most student players tend to start on a Rico or Symetricut 1 1/2 strength
and as they progress move onto a Vandoren or Rico Royal 2 - 3. Moving up
to professional level, reed choice becomes a matter of personal taste and
individual playing style. |
Double
Reeds
Again here Rico & Vandoren both offer reeds in a variety of strengths.
Also, (due to the particularly temperamental and fragile nature of double
reeds) synthetic reeds are available which are stronger and offer a greater
consistency of performance tied with a longer life expectancy for the student
player. |
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