How to Make an Oboe Reed

Most instruments will do well with a store purchased reed. Oboe and bassoon players, however, typically make their own reeds since the instruments are so dependent on the players unique mouth position. Making your own reeds is not as hard as you think should be practiced using these easy steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Gouged cane
• Beveled and hollow reed knives
• Shaper
• Staple
• Mandrel
• Nylon string
• Plaque
• Cup of warm water

1. Purchase gouged cane from a musical supply store that sells or rents oboes and bassoons. You will also need a beveled and hollow reed knife, mandrel, nylon string, shaper, staple and plaque set.
2. Soak the cane in warm water for an hour. Fold the cane into the shaper as tightly as possible and clamp. This is like folding a straw in half.
3. Shave the wedge knife down through the can until it is lying flush. This will make the narrow part of the reed. Fold the narrow part in on itself to insert into the staple. You should leave about 1/2 inch left out of the staple with the other 2 inches inside. Tie the nylon string around the tube to secure the cane.
4. Place the reed on the mandrel and scrape upward. Scrape on all sides of the reed, including the narrow part. Re-wet the reed occasionally to keep it pliable. Insert the plaque from the bottom and slide upward until securely between the fold.
5. Scrape until the reed tip separates and begins to form. Make fine scrapes behind the tip to form a heart. The final product should be about 2 1/2 inches. You will have to test the reed and continue to scrape until the desired tone is produced.