Description
Charles Pro oboe reeds are hand-made to order by Brian Charles, our founder, owner, and highly experienced reed maker.
We exclusively use Select Charles Pro cane from the Var region of France. The cane is .59 in the center and .48 on the sides (standard of most professionals) and comes from well-aged 10.5 mm stalks.
The proprietary shape of the cane is similar to the RDG-1 or Rigotti #1 shape. Each reed is tied with triple-twist ff nylon onto Charles Pro brass staples. There is never any wire, never any fishskin: no leaks – guaranteed.
Each reed leaves the shop playing wonderfully. Brian hand scrapes, and play tests every reed. Changes in humidity, temperature, and air pressure will affect the performance of the reed. You may need to adjust the tip opening and give the reed a half hour break-in period to experience its full capabilities. Once the reed is broken in, you can expect more responsive attacks, a refined tone, and long lasting stability.
Brian Charles studied reed-making at the Juilliard and Manhattan Schools of Music. His private reed-making lessons with Harold Gomberg, Jerry Roth, Ronald Roseman, Merrill Greenberg, and Henry Schumann have strongly influenced his style. Brian’s reeds combine the Tabuteau and Gomberg tradition with the modern, classic American style scrape which calls for a modified V-shaped tip, ample heart, strong spine, and well-defined windows. He has been making double reeds professionally for over 40 years.
Average dimensions:
- Overall length 70.5mm
- Staple length 47mm
- Width at tip 6.8mm
Thread color will vary. Each reed is shipped in a secure, individual case.
Our reeds are fully sanitized before shipment and fully guaranteed.
Charles Pro Reeds ship within 1 to 7 business days. They almost always ship within 1 to 2 business days, but delays are possible. Email us or call us at (603) 356-9890 to discuss emergency shipments.
