Learn how to listen and evaluate the crow of the reed under different circumstances.
Reed #1 crow (sharp, no rattle)
Reed crows on C-sharp and has no rattle. For more information, see volume 2, page 249, figure 9.5 and/or page 251, figure 9.10.
Reed #1, crowing after inserting the plaque.
Hear the difference in the crow after inserting the plaque. The crow sounds balanced with a proper rattle. Note that if the air stream is unfocused, the rattle is not present. For more information see volume 2, page 251, figure 9.13
Reed #1, toot
Listen to a demonstration of tooting reed #1. Rolling the reed in from the tip, it is easy to toot the reed on C-natural in a normal playing position. For more on the toot of the reed, see volume 1, page 104, figure 3.4.
Reed #1, breath attacks
Testing the reed with light puffs of air. For more on this test, see volume 1, page 104 and volume 2, page 302.
Reed #1, profile
Evaluate the profile of the reed for symmetry and the slope and placement of the blend. For more on reed profiles, see volume 1, pages 105-106 and volume 2, pages 285-288.
See the reed's measurements and trajectory from inception to present day. Learn to log and organize measurements to eliminate variables in order to repeat those that work and avoid those that do not work.
Backlighting Reed #1 with measurements
This reed was made on 01/04/23 with cane purchased in 2017. The tube cane was diam. 10.75; planed cane 7.95 mm wide; gouge: center 57/58; ears 39/39; shape: A-3; tube: 47, NS, 46.83 mm
Initially the reed sounded dull
5/24/23: good, a little closed
8/23/23, weak, clip?
10/24/25; plays well, a little weak good pitch Listen to reed's current condition in next video.
Play testing Reed #1 Two years later
The goal is to have a reed that will play when you pull it out of the box. The reed needs to meet basic criteria and may be adjusted or refined as needed. Playing with another instrument is an excellent way to establish the qualities of the reed that work and those that may not work.