Oboe
SOAKING AND CARING FOR YOUR REED
Reeds are expensive! Follow these steps to keep your reeds safe and make them last longer.
- Always keep your reeds in a proper case. The box or tube they come in is not properly ventilated and reeds will quickly mold. Buy a case that will hold at least six reeds. If you live in a dry climate purchase a case with a built in humidifier so reeds do not warp or crack.
- Before you assemble your instrument, take the reed out of its case and submerge it up to the thread in a small container of water for a few minutes. Saliva breaks down the cane and will do more harm than good. Unlike bassoon reeds there is no need to fully submerge the reed.
- Don't over soak the reed. It will become waterlogged and not work properly. Soak a new reed for two minutes, take it out of the water, and place it on your instrument. Reeds that have been broken in should only be soaked for thirty seconds. If the reed has been soaked for too long the tip will open too much and the reed will produce a "honky" sound because the tip opening will become too wide. Gently squeeze the base of the reed to bring the tip back together. Do this only after soaking the reed. Never adjust a dry reed. Doing so raises the chances of cracking the reed.
- Be very careful with the tip of the reed. When walking with the instrument, put the reed back in its case or in the soaking cup. Leaving it on the instrument might cause it to chip on another object.
- Always place the reed on your lower lip first to guide it into your mouth. Especially if you have braces, the reed can be easily chipped by placing it between your teeth too quickly. Placing it on the lower lip first will reduce the chances of hitting the tip on a bracket and chipping the reed.
- When done playing, rinse the reed in clean water and then wipe it off on a clean cloth. It's best to let it sit out and dry in the open air. If you are not able to do so, open the case when you get home to allow it to dry completely and prevent mold.
- Rotate between 3-6 reeds on a regular basis to ensure you always have a good reed that is broken in. Having a brand new reed the day of a concert will most likely squeak, honk, or not play at all.
Instrument Care
The oboe has a lot of moving parts. It is important to take care of the instrument and follow simple steps every day to ensure it is well maintained and in proper working order. Preventative maintenance will avoid costly repair bills down the road.
Cleaning Materials
Everyday Care:
- Before putting instrument together, make sure there is enough cork grease on the tenons (places where the joints join together) to slide the joint together without forcing.
- After you play your instrument, swab out the moisture that has built up inside. Start from the bell and put the cord through the top of the instrument. Pull gently making sure there are no knots in the cord. DO NOT FORCE the swab through the instrument. If it gets stuck gently pull in the other direction. Still stuck? Take it to a repair technician to get it out.
- Use pipe cleaner to dry and clean reed. Insert pipe cleaner carefully from the cork and gently pull through the tip.
- Rinse your reed in clean water, wipe it off, and dry it out.
- Check for any loose screws on the ends of the tension rods. - show your instructor if you find one.
- Check reeds for any sign of mold or cracking. - replace as needed.
- Never leave your oboe out. Always return it to its case when you are finished playing.
- Use a soft, dry paint brush to remove dust from under the keys.
- Inspect your instrument for pads that need to be replaced - if there is a tear in the pad or one missing take it to the repair shop.
- Vacuum the case to get rid of lint, animal hair, and dust.
- Place an orange peel in the case, The instrument will soak up the moisture in the peel and keep the wood from drying out. (Use only if you have a wooden oboe)
- Take your oboe to a qualified repairman to have it tuned up and adjusted.