Merz Bassoon Reeds
$26.00
Merz Bassoon Reed Specs:
- Total length: 54mm
- Blade length: 27mm
- Tube length: 27mm
- Shape: Berdon #3
- An older shape that is no longer manufactured. This shape is Knochenaur-style (comprised entirely of curves) and the blade of the reed has a much less dramatic flare than more familiar shapes such as the Rieger 1A. The throat is also wider than most familiar Knochenaur-style shapes at 9.5mm
- Geographic Location: Minnesota, low elevation, low to medium humidity
Reed Characteristics:
Merz bassoon reeds are extremely responsive and have very little resistance. It is very easy to blow lots of air through these reeds. They are quite vibrant, and would be great for players who are trying to be heard through thick textures or are looking for a soloistic reed.
This reed comes in varieties of medium-soft, medium and medium-hard. Please note that MMI does not prescribe hardness levels to our reeds, and these hardness levels are labelled solely at the discretion of the maker. This may result in subjective differences of opinion regarding hardness.
Notes from the maker:
"Check the wires after soaking the reed for a couple of minutes. Tighten them with a pliers if they are loose. Difficulties in response of the reed can often be remedied by adjusting the tip opening. If the reed is too soft and the tip is closed, use a pliers to gently squeeze the first wire at the sides until the desired tip opening is achieved. Squash the first wire down if the tip is too open and the reed is hard to play. Adjustments to the second wire can also help, remembering that the opposite effect on the tip will result from squeezing or squashing the wire and produce a more focused tone."
If you like these reeds, consider trying:
APEX Bassoon Reeds – These reeds are also made in Minnesota and are made using a similar style, but narrower, shape. They are also the same total length as the Merz bassoon reeds.
Reedcrest Bassoon Reeds – Features a wide shape with a similar throat width – similar responsiveness as the Merz bassoon reeds.
