Any way to make my oboe reed shorter?

Adjusting an Oboe Reed Length: Techniques and Methods

When playing the oboe, the length of the reed can greatly affect its performance and sound. There are several methods to make an oboe reed shorter, and these techniques can be implemented without the need for specialized reed-making tools. This article explores two common approaches for adjusting the length of an oboe reed, drawing information from reputable sources in the field.

Adjusting the Cork

One method to make an oboe reed shorter involves manipulating the cork around the staple pipe. This process requires a sharp knife or razor blade to cut the cork to the desired length. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Mark the desired length distance on the cork.
  2. Roll the staple on a hard surface while applying pressure with the blade, allowing for a clean cut of the cork.

By adjusting the cork, the overall length of the reed can be modified, which can impact its playability and response.

Manipulating the Internal Dimensions

Another approach to shorten an oboe reed involves manipulating its internal dimensions. This technique can be performed without the use of specialized tools and focuses on altering the reed’s structure. Here are some techniques to consider:

  • Soaking the Reed: Begin by soaking the reed in warm water for approximately one minute. Afterward, remove the reed and shake out any excess water. Allow the reed to sit for an additional minute. This process aims to achieve an appropriate opening, equivalent to the height of a dime.
  • Squeezing the Tip and Heart Area: If the reed plays flat, squeeze the tip and heart area (around one-third of the way back from the tip) together for approximately 30 seconds. Play the reed to assess the pitch. If it remains flat, apply slight pressure just above the thread with your thumb and forefinger to seal the cane against the tube. This technique can also assist with enhancing the performance of high notes. If the reed is still flat, displace the blades of the cane by pushing the top blade to the right and the bottom blade to the left. This manipulation alters the internal dimensions of the reed, making it slightly smaller and resulting in a higher pitch.

By utilizing these techniques, oboists can effectively adjust the internal dimensions of the reed to achieve the desired length and optimize its overall performance.

Please note that implementing any modifications to an oboe reed can impact various aspects of its functionality. It is essential to exercise caution and consider the potential trade-offs associated with these adjustments.

Sources:

  1. Aaron Lakota. “How to Adjust Flat Oboe Reeds Without Any Tools.” Retrieved from https://aaronlakota.com/how-to-adjust-flat-oboe-reeds-without-any-tools/
  2. Music: Practice & Theory Stack Exchange. “Any Way to Make My Oboe Reed Shorter?” Retrieved from https://music.stackexchange.com/questions/62603/any-way-to-make-my-oboe-reed-shorter
  3. Arizona State University. “Reed Adjustment Guide.” Retrieved from https://www.public.asu.edu/~schuring/Oboe/Reedguide.html

FAQs

Can I make my oboe reed shorter without using specialized tools?

Yes, you can adjust the length of an oboe reed without the need for specialized tools. There are techniques that allow you to manipulate the reed’s internal dimensions to achieve the desired length.

How can I adjust the cork to make my oboe reed shorter?

To adjust the cork and make the reed shorter, you can use a sharp knife or razor blade to cut the cork around the staple pipe at the desired length distance. Mark the cut, then roll the staple on a hard surface while pressing with the blade to obtain a clean edge.

What are some techniques for manipulating the internal dimensions of the reed to make it shorter?

Here are some techniques to manipulate the internal dimensions of the reed and make it shorter:

    • Soaking the reed: Soak the reed in warm water for one minute, then remove it and shake out excess water. Let it sit for another minute. The opening of the reed should be about the height of a dime.
    • Squeezing the tip and heart area: If the reed plays flat, squeeze the tip and heart area (about one-third of the way back from the tip) closed for 30 seconds and then play the reed. If it is still flat, apply a small amount of pressure just above the thread with your thumb and forefinger to seal the cane against the tube. This can also help high notes speak. If it is still flat, displace the blades of the cane by pushing the top blade to the right and the bottom blade to the left. This changes the internal dimensions of the reed to be slightly smaller, resulting in a higher pitch.

What factors should I consider when shortening an oboe reed?



When shortening an oboe reed, it’s important to consider the impact on the reed’s response, resistance, tone quality, and stability. Adjusting the length can affect how easily the reed speaks, how much air it accepts, the overall timbre of the sound, and its pitch stability.

Are there any potential trade-offs or risks associated with shortening an oboe reed?

Yes, modifying an oboe reed’s length can have trade-offs. It’s crucial to exercise caution and be aware of the potential impact on the reed’s functionality. Changes in length may affect the reed’s playability, response, and overall sound quality. It’s advisable to experiment with small adjustments and carefully assess the results.

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