The workshop is where we make magic…

The three parts

 
 
The workshop

The workshop

The space

It begins with an idea, a vision. It is all about honouring the reed. To do that we created a space that is dedicated to making oboe reeds.

Profiler in use

Profiler in use

The tools

The machines at the heart of the workshop are costly, precision-made, and totally gorgeous. They are a joy to work with.

Andrew guillotining cane

Andrew guillotining cane

The process

An overview

The idea is deliciously simple; the execution more complex. The essence of our reed-making goes like this: take a piece of choice dried grass, then with great care, split it, thin it, fold it, and tie it with beautiful multi-coloured threads onto a brass tube. Lastly, scrape the reed meticulously three times, letting it rest for several days each time. Finally it is ready to release its unique vibrations.

The soul and the source of sound for the oboe has been created.

See the videos below…

 

The Process

 

The mandrel and oboe staple

Securing the thread

Soaking the oboe cane

Noting cane measurements

Thinning the ends of the cane

Scoring the cane ends

Folding the oboe cane

Aligning the cane and staple

Tying the cane onto the staple

Drying the reed