Reeds

Reeds for woodwind instruments

Reeds are responsible for the production of clay in many wind instruments. They are usually made of pile or reed, but nowadays they are also made of other materials such as bamboo or polystyrene. A distinction is made between instruments with a single reed like saxophone or clarinet and instruments with double reeds like oboe or bassoon.

The sound of reeds depends on the thickness of the material over the width and length of the reed. Thinner hands (strength 1-1.5) intonate more easily and can be played more quietly, but also overblow faster. Thicker or harder hands (strength 2-2.5) allow for a louder playing and more expression in solo playing, but are a little harder to intonate.

In order for reeds to sound optimal, they must be moistened. Double reeds are usually watered before playing, single reeds are often moistened at the tip. Traditional leaves made of natural materials age and have to be replaced after a certain period of time. The length of the shelf life varies according to the type and frequency of playing and can be weeks or even months.