How to Buy and Attach a Clarinet Reed

The reed is one of the most important parts of a clarinet. Without it, the clarinet won't make any sound. There are a number of things you can do to make sure that you are purchasing the correct reeds and attaching them correctly to your clarinet.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Purchase your clarinet reeds from your local music store. They are made of different types of wood and of different thicknesses. It is fine to start with a basic, inexpensive reed with a number rating of 2 and 1/2 to 3. As you progress in your ability, you can try different reeds and thicknesses. You will need at least 3 to start with because they break easily.
2. Moisten the reed in your mouth while you assemble the clarinet. In order for the reed to vibrate properly, it needs to be dampened. You don't have to soak the reed; just place it on your tongue for a few moments.
3. Place the loosened ligature on the mouthpiece of the clarinet. Make sure that the ligature is facing the correct way and is on right side up before inserting the reed. Reeds are very thin and can break easily, so checking the ligature first will help save the reed from breaking.
4. Slide the thick end of the reed with its flat side against the mouthpiece and slip it into place. The thin half should be at the top and the thicker part should be at the bottom under the ligature. The reed should cover the hole in the mouthpiece on both sides and just barely come over the top of the mouthpiece.
5. Fix the ligature in place using the lined guides on the mouthpiece. Once you have the ligature in place, tighten the screw or screws on the ligature enough to hold the reed securely in place.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't tighten the ligature too tight or the reed will not vibrate properly when you play.