Attaching a reed to a clarinet is a crucial step in producing beautiful music. A properly attached reed vibrates freely, allowing the player to create rich and resonant tones. On the other hand, an improperly attached reed can hinder the player’s ability to produce sound and can even damage the instrument. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to put a reed on a clarinet, ensuring that your instrument is ready to produce beautiful music.
Before you begin, it is important to gather the necessary materials. You will need a clarinet, a reed, a reed case, and a reed guard. Once you have your materials, you can begin the process of attaching the reed to the clarinet. First, wet the reed by placing it in your mouth for a few seconds. Next, take the reed and place it on the mouthpiece of the clarinet. Make sure that the reed is aligned properly, with the tip of the reed pointing towards the tip of the mouthpiece. Finally, secure the reed in place by tightening the ligature. The ligature should be tight enough to hold the reed in place, but not so tight that it restricts the vibration of the reed.
Once the reed is attached, you can begin playing the clarinet. However, it is important to note that a new reed may take some time to break in. During this time, the reed may sound a bit harsh or squeaky. This is normal, and the sound will improve as the reed breaks in. With proper care and maintenance, a reed can last for several months. To extend the life of your reed, be sure to clean it regularly and store it in a reed case when not in use. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your clarinet is always ready to produce beautiful music.
Wetting the Reed
Soaking the Reed in Water
Submerging the reed in water is the first step in preparing it for use. Here’s how to do it step by step:
- Fill a small container with lukewarm water. The water should be about 1 inch deep.
- Place the reed in the water. Make sure that the entire reed is submerged, including the tip and the back.
- Let the reed soak for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the reed to absorb water and become more flexible.
Wiping the Reed Dry
After the reed has soaked, it’s important to wipe it dry before using it. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a soft cloth to gently pat the reed dry. Do not rub the reed, as this can damage it.
- Be sure to dry both the tip and the back of the reed.
Dampening the Reed
Once the reed is dry, you can dampen it to make it more playable. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a moist cloth to gently wipe the tip of the reed. Do not soak the reed, as this can make it too wet and difficult to play.
- Be sure to only dampen the tip of the reed. The back of the reed should remain dry.
Adjusting the Reed
Once you have moistened the reed, you can begin to adjust it. Here are some tips:
- Gently bend the tip of the reed with your fingers. This will help to open it up and make it more responsive.
- If the reed is too hard, you can scrape the back of it with a sharp knife or razor blade. Be careful not to scrape too much, as this can weaken the reed.
- If the reed is too soft, you can soak it in water for a few minutes. This will help to soften the fibers and make it more playable.
- Once you have adjusted the reed to your liking, place it on the mouthpiece of the clarinet and blow gently. You should hear a clear, even sound.
- If the sound is too bright, you can try using a softer reed. If the sound is too dark, you can try using a harder reed.
- It is important to experiment with different reeds and adjustments until you find the combination that works best for you. There is no one “right” way to adjust a reed, so don’t be afraid to try different things until you find what sounds best.
| Adjusting the Reed |
|---|
| Gently bend the tip of the reed with your fingers. |
| If the reed is too hard, you can scrape the back of it with a sharp knife or razor blade. |
| If the reed is too soft, you can soak it in water for a few minutes. |
| Once you have adjusted the reed to your liking, place it on the mouthpiece of the clarinet and blow gently. |
| If the sound is too bright, you can try using a softer reed. If the sound is too dark, you can try using a harder reed. |
| It is important to experiment with different reeds and adjustments until you find the combination that works best for you. |
Checking for Leaks
To check for leaks, assemble your clarinet and insert a new reed. Blow gently into the mouthpiece while covering the holes with your fingers. Listen for any hissing or whistling sounds, which indicate a leak.
If you detect a leak, check the following areas:
| Component | How to check | Possible Cause |
|---|---|---|
| Mouthpiece | Remove the mouthpiece and inspect the cork. | Cork may be dry or damaged |
| Barrel | Separate the barrel from the upper joint. | Cracks or defects in the wood. |
| Upper Joint | Cover the tone holes and blow into the mouthpiece. | Loose or damaged tenons |
| Lower Joint | Check the tenon where the upper and lower joints connect | Loose or damaged tenons |
| Bell | Cover the tone holes and blow into the mouthpiece. | Cracks or defects in the wood |
| Reed | Inspect the reed for tears or damage. | Reed may be damaged or improperly seated |
Once you have identified the source of the leak, you can take steps to fix it, such as tightening the tenons, applying cork grease, or replacing the reed.
Common Reed Issues
The following are some troubleshooting tips for common issues faced when putting a reed on a clarinet:
Moistening the Reed
Use saliva or synthetic wetting solution; dab the tip of the reed only. Do not over-moisten.
Positioning the Reed on the Mouthpiece
Center the reed on the mouthpiece, ensuring the tip extends slightly over the edge.
Tightening the Ligature
Tighten the ligature evenly, applying just enough pressure to hold the reed firmly without crushing it.
Inspecting the Reed
Check the reed for nicks or chips. If any, replace or repair it.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
10. Difficulty Producing Sound
| Possible Causes | Solutions |
| Leaking reed | Replace or reposition the reed. Adjust the ligature tension. |
| Misaligned mouthpiece | Realign the mouthpiece on the clarinet body. |
