There are many things that affect how long a bassoon reed will last. Bassoon players should learn the techniques that will change the strength of their reeds. Having the appropriate kind of reed and understanding reed care is essential for increasing the life of your bassoon reed.<\/p>\n
How to Extend the Life of Your Bassoon Reed<\/h2>\n
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Bassoon reeds can become quite costly depending on the type you are using and how often you are using the reed. It is possible to extend the life of your bassoon reed through proper care and storage. Some things to keep in mind to ensure that your bassoon reed lasts as long as possible include:<\/p>\n
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- Use a reed case:<\/strong> Purchasing and using a bassoon reed case, like the Pro Tec Bassoon Reed Case<\/a>, are much better for your reeds than the plastic case provided with purchase. A great bassoon reed case will include ventilation holes to allow your reeds to fully dry after use.<\/li>\n
- Clean your bassoon reeds properly:<\/strong> Bassoon reeds can break down from the acid in your saliva when not properly cleaned. Unclean bassoon reeds might also develop mold, mildew or excess bacterial growth.<\/li>\n
- Rotate your bassoon reeds:<\/strong> Using multiple reeds will allow them to rest between uses and cleaning. It will also ensure that you do not overuse or break-in your bassoon reed too quickly. This is particularly important to avoid with new reeds.<\/li>\n
- Soak your reed before use:<\/strong> Soaking your bassoon reed before each use will prevent the reed from drying out. Use lukewarm water and soak the reed for a few minutes while you are assembling your bassoon.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
How Do You Clean a Bassoon Reed?<\/h2>\n
Reed cleaning is important to ensure your bassoon reed will last as long as possible. Each person will have their own reed cleaning routine and will want to adjust based on their usage and type of reeds. Some tips to make sure your reed is being properly cleaned each time include:<\/p>\n
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- Use fresh water:<\/strong> Using fresh water each time you soak your reed will help prevent mold and bacteria from growing on your reed. Never consume your reed water as it may contain remnants of mold from your reed.<\/li>\n
- Rinse:<\/strong> Rinsing your bassoon reed in clean water after each use will clear away the acid from your saliva and prevent breakage. This can be done by running the reed through fresh water to remove the saliva build up.<\/li>\n
- Cleaning solution:<\/strong> Using a well balanced cleaning solution will ensure your reed gets fully clean. Mix one part water with one part hydrogen peroxide and a dash of mouthwash. Soak your reed in this solution every one to two weeks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
How Much Do Bassoon Reeds Cost?<\/h2>\n
The cost of a bassoon reed depends on the:<\/p>\n
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- Manufacturer<\/li>\n
- Style<\/li>\n
- Material<\/li>\n
- Strength<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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It is possible to find a bassoon reed for $10.00, but the average cost of a bassoon reed will be around $20.00. If you are a serious bassoon player, however, you will want to invest more in your reed. Some examples of bassoon reeds include:<\/p>\n- \n
- Budget Bassoon Reed:<\/strong> If you are looking for an affordable bassoon reed and are not concerned about the material or durability, you can find one around $10-$12 like the Eastar ERD-BSms Bassoon Reed<\/a>.<\/li>\n
- Bulk Bassoon Reeds:<\/strong> It is a good idea to have multiple reeds on hand at all times. If you like a specific bassoon reed, you are able to purchase sets of multiples, such as the Geesatis 5 PCS Bassoon Reeds<\/a> set that’s around $26 for 5 double reeds.<\/li>\n
- Average Bassoon Reed:<\/strong> An average double bassoon reed, such as the Richards RDR-1203 Bassoon Double Reed<\/a>, will cost around $20.<\/li>\n
- Synthetic Bassoon Reed:<\/strong> Synthetic bassoon reeds are non-traditional but are considered more sustainable. A synthetic reed, like the Legere Bassoon Reed<\/a>, will cost much more than an average reed at around $140.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
- Bulk Bassoon Reeds:<\/strong> It is a good idea to have multiple reeds on hand at all times. If you like a specific bassoon reed, you are able to purchase sets of multiples, such as the Geesatis 5 PCS Bassoon Reeds<\/a> set that’s around $26 for 5 double reeds.<\/li>\n
- Budget Bassoon Reed:<\/strong> If you are looking for an affordable bassoon reed and are not concerned about the material or durability, you can find one around $10-$12 like the Eastar ERD-BSms Bassoon Reed<\/a>.<\/li>\n
- Rinse:<\/strong> Rinsing your bassoon reed in clean water after each use will clear away the acid from your saliva and prevent breakage. This can be done by running the reed through fresh water to remove the saliva build up.<\/li>\n
- Clean your bassoon reeds properly:<\/strong> Bassoon reeds can break down from the acid in your saliva when not properly cleaned. Unclean bassoon reeds might also develop mold, mildew or excess bacterial growth.<\/li>\n
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There are some issues that all reeds are susceptible to. It is important to not only know these but be able to deal with and solve these issues.<\/p>\n![\"bassoon](\"https:\/\/wordpress-686768-2265439.cloudwaysapps.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/bassoon-double-reed-300x279.jpg\")
Bassoon reeds come in a variety of strengths that affect the sound, quality, and life of the reed. New bassoon players will want to consider the strength of their breath before choosing their reed. If you are still determining which reed is best for you, you try out a variety of reed strengths to see which suits you best. The various bassoon reed strengths include:<\/p>\n