Been-Jammin'
11-27-2005, 07:47 PM
I apologize if this actually belongs in the Reeds section, but these are Tips, so here goes:
I just recieved this information a few days ago from a friend, and I can't explain Why some of this stuff helps, but it really does help.
So here are some steps on how to break in a new reed.
1. Drop the reed in a glass of water for a minute or two (to open up the pores, pretty common knowledge).
2. Now take the reed out and get a piece of computer paper. with the top of the reed down on the paper, apply some pressure just below the heart of the reed and start rubbing the reed horizontally (Across the grain) on the paper. (Computer paper has a very thin layer of wax on the top, which will help the pores seal the moisture in, err, something to that effect). When you're done rubbing, the top of the reed should appear kind of shiney.
3. Now play on the reed for about 5 minutes or so.
4. This part is kind of nasty, but it works.
rub your fingers along the sides of your nose (where all the oils are), and then run them down the edge of the reed, pressing it against the rails. The oils will help the reed seal against the mouthpiece better. (there probably is an alternative oil to facial oil, but your face is a little more accessible than other stuff...and it wont Kill you).
5. Ok, you've done it! Now your reed will play like it's been playing for a couple weeks!
and that's all folks8-)
I just recieved this information a few days ago from a friend, and I can't explain Why some of this stuff helps, but it really does help.
So here are some steps on how to break in a new reed.
1. Drop the reed in a glass of water for a minute or two (to open up the pores, pretty common knowledge).
2. Now take the reed out and get a piece of computer paper. with the top of the reed down on the paper, apply some pressure just below the heart of the reed and start rubbing the reed horizontally (Across the grain) on the paper. (Computer paper has a very thin layer of wax on the top, which will help the pores seal the moisture in, err, something to that effect). When you're done rubbing, the top of the reed should appear kind of shiney.
3. Now play on the reed for about 5 minutes or so.
4. This part is kind of nasty, but it works.
rub your fingers along the sides of your nose (where all the oils are), and then run them down the edge of the reed, pressing it against the rails. The oils will help the reed seal against the mouthpiece better. (there probably is an alternative oil to facial oil, but your face is a little more accessible than other stuff...and it wont Kill you).
5. Ok, you've done it! Now your reed will play like it's been playing for a couple weeks!
and that's all folks8-)