Woodwind Instruments

Why does the low register of any woodwind instrument respond poorly? Where can you purchase good double reeds? What should you do when a woodwind instrument cracks? What options are needed on a school oboe and bassoon? How do you deal with stuck swabs? Why is one particular note sharp or flat? Why is just the upper, middle or lower register flat or sharp? These and countless other questions about purchasing, maintaining, troubleshooting, repairing and storing woodwind instruments are answered in this comprehensive yet concise handbook.

Topics include:

Purchasing– what options you need/don’t need, safest to buy

Maintaining– lubrication, water control, tarnish and residue control

Troubleshooting– pitch, response, mechanical, common problems

Repair– cork and pad replacement, emergency fixes

Storage– minimizing wood instrument cracks, keeping in adjustment

Tuning– affects of temperature, dynamics, instrument length, reeds

Peculiaritiesof harmony instruments

Understanding reeds– brands, warpage, balance

Mouthpieces– jazz and classical recommendations

Building a woodwind tool kit– what to include