Chloe Zhang
Plastic bassoon reeds come in different strengths, and their quality depends on the brand. For instance, Legere reeds are known for their durability, instant response, and consistent tone, while cheaper plastic reeds tend to be thin and produce a weak sound. Beginners usually start with medium-strength reeds, as softer or harder reeds require more adjustments to be playable. While most plastic reeds are considered inferior to traditional cane reeds, some musicians prefer plastic reeds for their consistency and longevity.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic bassoon reeds have different strengths | Yes, depending on the brand and type. For example, a harder plastic reed will be stronger than a softer plastic reed. |
| Types of plastic bassoon reeds | Fox bassoon reed, Rieger bassoon reed, Singin' Dog, Silverstein, Jones, Legere, Britannia, mini bassoon reed |
| Strength levels | Soft, medium, medium-soft, medium-hard, hard |
| Ideal strength for beginners | Medium strength |
| Thickness measurement unit | Grams |
| Sound | Thin plastic reeds produce a weak sound. Plastic reeds are also described as having a dark, reedy timbre. |
| Price | $20-30 for cheap plastic reeds, over $100 for expensive ones like Legere |
| Durability | Plastic reeds are more durable than cane reeds. |
| Maintenance | Plastic reeds require less maintenance than cane reeds. |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic reeds are inconsistent and produce a weak sound
Plastic bassoon reeds are inconsistent and produce a weak sound, according to some sources. While they are cheaper and easier to play than cane reeds, they may not be suitable for more experienced players. The strength of a plastic bassoon reed depends on its brand, type, and manufacturing process. For instance, a harder plastic reed is stronger than a softer one, and a handcrafted reed is stronger than a machine-made one.
Some people find that plastic reeds produce a thin and weak sound. They may be inconsistent, hard, inflexible, and unresponsive, lacking colour or finesse. However, others have found that plastic reeds can produce a dark and lovely sound with an easy response throughout all registers. The strength and stability of the top octave can benefit from the structural strength of the reed.
The inconsistency of plastic reeds may be due to variations in thickness and symmetry. A good reed is well-balanced, evenly scraped, and symmetrical in shape and thickness. It should be free-blowing enough to accommodate a loose and comfortable embouchure without causing strain on the player's lips or lungs. However, if it is too free-blowing, the player may lose control over their volume.
Additionally, the thickness of the cane used in the reed can impact its sound. If the cane is too thick, the tone may be stiff and hesitant across all notes. Thicker cane on the edges and corners of the blades can result in stuffy and unresponsive notes in the higher registers. Adjustments can be made to the reed by scraping or sanding to improve its playability and sound.
While most plastic reeds may be inadequate, some premium options like the Legere reed have been endorsed by professors and professionals. These reeds are long-lasting and consistent, providing a desirable tone colour and dynamic range. However, they are significantly more expensive than cane reeds, costing over $100 each.
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Plastic bassoon reeds are cheaper and easier to play
Plastic bassoon reeds are generally considered to be cheaper and easier to play than cane reeds, making them a popular choice for beginners and students. While they may produce a weaker sound and lack the warmth and finesse of traditional cane reeds, plastic reeds offer consistency, durability, and value for money.
One of the main advantages of plastic reeds is their longevity. Unlike cane reeds, which need to be frequently replaced, plastic reeds are known for their durability and resistance to changing weather conditions. This makes them a cost-effective option, especially for students and musicians on a budget.
Additionally, plastic reeds are easier to play, particularly for beginners. They require less technique and adjustment, making them more accessible to those who are new to the bassoon. Plastic reeds also tend to be more stable in the higher octaves, benefiting from the structural strength of the material. This stability can aid in achieving a consistent tone and dynamic range.
However, it is worth noting that the quality of plastic reeds can vary significantly. While some cheaper plastic reeds may be hard, inflexible, and unresponsive, higher-end options like the Legere reeds have been praised for their tone colour, dynamic range, and projection. Legere reeds, in particular, have gained a reputation for offering a playing experience comparable to that of high-quality cane reeds. Nonetheless, even with premium plastic reeds, some musicians still prefer the sound and feel of traditional cane, especially for performances.
Overall, plastic bassoon reeds offer a cost-effective and beginner-friendly alternative to cane reeds. While they may not offer the same tonal qualities as cane, their durability, ease of play, and consistency make them a viable option for students and musicians seeking a low-maintenance reed option.
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Legere plastic reeds are expensive but long-lasting
Plastic bassoon reeds vary in strength, with harder plastic reeds being stronger than softer plastic reeds. Legere plastic reeds are known to be long-lasting and consistent, with users reporting that they do not need to be changed as frequently as traditional cane reeds. They are also said to be durable and instantly responsive, providing a full spectrum of harmonic overtones.
While Legere reeds are expensive, costing over $100 each, they are built to last and offer a good dynamic range. Users have praised the tone color and projection of the reed in all octaves, noting that it is easy to push the reed without it becoming harsh. The structural strength of the reed also lends stability to the top octave.
However, some users have reported experiencing muscle fatigue in their jaw after prolonged playing, and some prefer the warmer sound and feel of natural cane reeds. Additionally, Legere reeds cannot be adjusted, so players must adapt to whatever reed they receive.
When compared to cheaper plastic reeds, which can cost between $20 and $30, Legere reeds offer a superior experience. Cheaper plastic reeds are often described as "garbage" and "unusable", with users reporting that they produce a weak sound. On the other hand, Legere reeds are known for their quality and are used by a small minority of professionals, although most consider them adequate as backup reeds.
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Beginners should use medium-strength plastic reeds
When starting out with the bassoon, it's important to choose the right type of reed. While the bassoon produces a warm, dark, reedy timbre, the sound can vary depending on the type of reed used. Beginners tend to buy reeds from professional reed makers.
Reeds come in different strengths, including soft, medium, medium-soft, medium-hard, and hard. For beginners, it is advisable to stick with reeds that are in the medium range. The Fox Renard Bassoon Reed is a good choice for beginners as it is only available in medium strength and is one of the most affordable options. Medium-strength reeds are also ideal for players who want to master the art of playing the bassoon.
The harder or softer a reed is, the more adjustments and modifications will need to be made before it is playable. A beginner bassoonist's ability to handle reeds on the softer and harder ends of the reed strength spectrum needs to be developed over time, taking skill, preference, and sound into consideration. Many students are advised to learn how to make their own adjustments to finished reeds, which gives them a better understanding of their instrument and more control over their sound.
While most plastic reeds have been considered terrible, there are some good options available. The Legere reed, for example, has been praised for its tone color and response, with a very dark, lovely sound and an easy response throughout all registers. It is also structurally strong, which benefits the top octave. However, it is quite expensive, costing over $100 each.
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Plastic reeds are not suitable for professional playing
Plastic reeds are not suitable for professional players because they are not adjustable. You get what you get and have to adapt to it. They also have a smaller tip opening, which makes it difficult to play as loud as one might want. The pitch is also on the high side and cannot be brought down.
Plastic reeds are not suitable for professional players because they are not durable. They need to be handled carefully, or they will break. They also need to warm up each time before playing and need to be softened with hot water.
Plastic reeds are not suitable for professional players because they are not widely accepted. Serious double reed players always make their own reeds, and a plastic reed will likely feel foreign to them. While some professionals are using plastic reeds, they are only a very small minority.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, plastic bassoon reeds do have different strengths. Harder plastic reeds are stronger than softer plastic reeds. Different brands of reeds also vary in strength. For instance, a Fox bassoon reed is stronger than a Rieger bassoon reed.
Some good plastic bassoon reed brands include Legere, Silverstein, and Singin' Dog. While most plastic reeds are considered inferior to cane reeds, the more expensive options like Legere are said to be good enough for professionals.
Plastic bassoon reeds are cheaper and easier to play on than cane reeds. They are also more consistent and long-lasting, and they do not need to be changed as frequently as cane reeds.
