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Beginner and intermediate players increase reed strength as they develop, usually when their
sound starts to become bright and the reed offers little resistance
Once a student gets to a more advanced level of proficiency, the strength of the reed is
determined by the student’s mouthpiece.
The larger the tip opening, the softer the reed. The smaller the tip opening, the harder the reed.
The longer the facing, the harder the reed. The shorter the facing, the softer the reed.
Students should follow the break-in procedures listed earlier, then after the 5 to 7 days, they can work
to adjust reeds to fit their needs.
Tools
Container (for soaking reeds)
Plaque – Muncy Winds or Earspasm Music
Polishing Paper
Sandpaper (maybe)
Other reed tools (maybe)
Other Considerations:
• If a new reed has bright yellow or brown spots on the vamp (the cut part of the reed), then it
probably is not going to be a good reed. The color of the stock generally does not make a
difference.
• If a reed feels a little bit too hard, lowering it on the mouthpiece helps. Likewise, raising it
slightly on the mouthpiece will make it more resistant.
• The left side of most Vandoren reeds is harder than the right side. Sometimes moving the reed
over to the left slightly will make it respond better without removing any cane.
• Many clarinetists like softer reeds in the summer and harder reeds in the winter.
• Check to see whether a student has tightened the ligature screws correctly. Too tight or too
loose can affect how a reed functions.
Final Thoughts
• Every clarinetist has a specific way to deal with reeds that works for them.
• Reeds and mouthpieces feel different to each player, so experimentation is critical.
• Consider reaching out to reed companies and asking for samples for your students. Sometimes
these companies will send out representatives to come and teach reed skills to your students.