Hi everyone! I have been having alot of trouble with reeds lately. I use Marlin Lesher reeds and they have only been lasting a few days it seems. I have band everyday so I use them daily but they are pretty much closed up at the end of the week. I would like to learn to make my own reeds but I live in a small town and i'm pretty much the only oboe player for miles around. I have been using a medium strength reed, so should I have a harder strength? I have been playing for 4 years. Any help at all would be greatly appreciated!

Have you tried putting your reeds on a rotation? I don't think going to a harder reed will help, but I'm no expert in the field. My reeds usually last a few weeks, but I play them to death.

Let me know if you need any assistance on reeds! You might want to try to purchase some HANDMADE reeds. Some of the "over the counter".. well.. ok.. ALL of the over the counter reeds and NOT very good and certainly not consistent!
Thanks!
Kerry
www.reedmaker.com

do you soak the reeds? if not soak them before each time you play

I've found that Fox brand oboe reeds are fairly consistent. I've had bad ones...but with all brands have their duds (this kind just seems to have less) The medium hard tends to be the best for myself. Good luck! I know it's hard finding a reed that suites you!

-Kt