Reeds on an airplane?

[tamsax1]

When traveling on an airplane, what is the proper way to store reeds to insure playability of broken in reeds at your destination after a flight?

Any recommendations would be appreciated.

[Carl H.]

I would think it would be more a climate issue than an altitude issue - If you went from a dry climate to a humid climate, that would be more likely to affect reed playability than an airplane flight. A synthetic reed would be less affected by both factors (altitude, humidity) than a natural cane product. If you still prefer to use a natural product, get to the venue as early as is practical and go through your reeds and pick/tweek your reeds for the gig.

[tamsax1]

I am going from Chicago to Denver, will I lose playability of my broken in reeds by going to a dry and high elevation location?

[Gandalfe]

Probably not. You can provide some extra protection by using a reed guard. But you are probably already doing that. I've played in different climates with no noticable problems with my reeds.

[Carl H.]

They may play a bit harder. I used to have issues with the reverse - working up reeds in a comfortable a/c environment, then getting to the gig and all my reeds playing soft. I just checked weather conditions for Chicago vs Denver, similar temp but much drier in Denver. Try out your reeds in a dry area, such as an airconditioned home, if they play well there they will probably be fine in Denver.

[Vortex]

Save the cellophane wrappers from the boxes of reeds, then before you leave for your destination put the reeds in LaVoz reedgards, then seal the reedgards in the baggies by burning them closed. That should fit the bill.

[saxchado]

You will most likely have a difficult time keeping your reeds from drying out. I spent two weeks on a gig in Illinois earlier this summer, where it seemed like my reeds never dried out, when I got home to Utah (very similar conditions to Denver) it seemed like I couldn't keep my reeds wet, even between songs. Also, they will seem a little bit harder, so make sure you have your adjustment tools with you. The altitude will prove more of an issue for you than for your reeds :)

I keep my reeds in a tupperware container, to keep them from drying out. I also have a humidity control device in there to keep things constant.

One more thing, that should be a no-brainer: Carry your reeds on! The cabin pressure/temp controls are a big help as opposed to the sub-freezing temps in the luggage compartment.
Good luck!

[Anonymous]

I didn't notice any problem with my reeds after a 14 hour flight (L.A. to New Zealand) but my air sole shoes that were in my luggage had both popped.