I just switched to bassoon about a month ago (I was originally a clarinet). My question is: do I have to own a reed case?? I know it's not good to keep the reed in the plastic tube that came with it when purchased, but I just want to know if having a case is necessary (I am aware that bassoon reed cases are quite pricey).

It is indeed a good idea to have a case for the reeds. The tip of the read is quite delicate and can be broken. If you keep the reed in an airtight container they tend to form old (not nice).

But you can easily make some kind of box yourself from stuff laying around, saving on costs. It could be an Altoid-s box with some air holes and supporting cotton. Or whatever you find in box way.

There is even a suggestion from some players (not, tried it but does not work for me) to keep the reeds in a small bottle with vodka. The vodka, having about 40% alcohol and the rest water, keeps nasty fungy and bacteria away while keeping the reed perfectly moist. Well, at least som say so.

Good luck in playing the bassoon. The best way to learn is to play a short time every day, even as short as 15 minutes. And get a teacher that knows the instrument and follow the advice.

/Gunnar

It is a good idea to have a case for your bassoon reeds that will prevent crushing of the reeds when you store the reed case in your bassoon case , but more importantly a case that will allow the reeds to dry between usage. If the reeds stay wet over night in an enclosed plastic vial (which is usually what the reed is sold in, mold will grow and the reed will be too soggy to properly vibrate the next day for playing.

If you don't want to spring for a professional case, you can make one cheaply with an Altoids tin case for mints. Cut holes on the top of the tin and line the tin with paper towel. Gently place your reeds in the case and you are good to go.

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