How To Choose A Reed

Just starting out?

We recommend sticking with Charles brand reeds, which we make here by hand. They are guaranteed.
Charles Oboe Reeds
Charles Bassoon Reeds

Definition of strengths:

Medium Soft: easier to blow but a bit harder to control
Medium: responsive and easy to control – works well for most players
Medium Hard: more effort is required to produce a sound but the sound is very stable

Basic rules of thumb:

  • If you’ve been playing 1 to 3 years (and practice a basic amount)
    We recommend: Charles Student – Medium strength
    If the player wears braces choose: Charles Student – Medium Soft strength
    If the player is sharp in pitch or bites their reed choose: Charles Student – Medium Hard strength
  • Playing 2 to 4 years (and you practice an hour or more per day)
    We recommend: Charles Standard – Medium strength
    If the player wears braces choose: Charles Standard- Medium Soft strength
    If the player is sharp in pitch or bites their reed choose: Charles Standard – Medium Hard strength
  • Playing 4 years plus (and you’ve advanced considerably or started reed making)
    We recommend: Charles Pro – Medium strength

Please send us a message below or email brian@charlesmusic.com if you have questions or comments. We are very happy to advise you.