Tips for Preparing and Handling Clarinet and Saxophone Reeds
There are various methods for hydrating reeds. New fresh cane reeds absorb more water than already played ones. Reeds can naturally be moistened in the mouth. The entire reed, including the tip and heel, should be hydrated. (Be careful to avoid distortion of the tip so as not to bend the corners of the tip of the reed). Another way to hydrate is to dip the new reed into a glass of water. Do not wipe off the remaining water, and place the reed upside down on an even surface. The wood naturally absorbs as much water as needed; no more or less is necessary. (Interestingly, denser wood absorbs less water. After some minutes, water may remain on the base of the reed. If this is the case, it may mean that the reed is made of denser wood and is, therefore, harder.) Continue by wiping off the remaining water and begin testing. Now you can see how the reed responds and test whether it is the strength that you desire.
If a fresh reed seems a bit too hard, do not worry. It will become softer as you play it more.
The bottom of the reed is worth adjusting. Taking just a few seconds, remove the outlying fibers on the underside of the reed to make the bottom smoother. If the underside is evenly shiny (except for the tip), then you know it is straight. If a slight unevenness is noticeable, you should correct the bottom ever so slightly. To make adjustments, you can r place fine sandpaper on a hard surface, like on glass or a plexiglass plate. A fine file or sand/pumice stones can also be used. We recommend you to use a sandblasted glass plate “Fedotov Reeds”
Avoid accidently scratching the tip of the reed from below. Practice makes perfect! Pay attention to how you move the reed into position. The pressure should be light and even. Do not press too much on the middle of the reed if you do not want the reed to become softer. After completing all adjustments to the bottom side, the reed will sound more balanced, the response will be better, and blowing will be easier.
Additional Tips: Preparing the Reed for Daily Playing
Many musicians recommend not to play a new reed that is fresh out of the box too long (i.e. maximum up to one minute). Playing high pitches and playing extremely loudly should also be avoided. You can play the new reed for a longer period of time every day while increasing the range of pitch. In a few days, the reed will be fully functional. When you are finished playing, put reeds away in a secure reed case. Never place wet or dry reeds in the sun or near a heat source. Invest in a good reed case to keep your favorite reeds in good condition so that you can use them for as long as possible. Invest in a good reed case to keep your favorite reeds in their best condition, so that you can use them for as long as possible.
Have fun making music!
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