How Do You Evaluate A Clarinet Reed?
The reed for your clarinet is one of the most delicate and important parts of the instrument. Without it, your clarinet could not make any musical sound. You should know what to look for before and after you buy this vital part. Check the reed while it is dry and after you wet it. Note any differences between the stiff, dry reed and the moist, flexible version. Check every reed, even if you always buy reeds from the same manufacturer. No two reeds are exactly alike. Hold the thin tip of the reed up to the light and look for any chips, cracks or uneven edges. This is where the vibrations are made that create the music and the tip must be free of defects. The reed should be smooth with no burrs or rough edges. Examine the middle of the reed for wear or cracks what may have occurred where your lips press to the reed. Reeds with residue, like lipstick or lip balm, should be checked often to ensure that the reed is vibrating properly. This part of the reed should be flat and smooth. Clean t
