Légère Synthetic Oboe Reed, Medium-Soft, European Scrape
Manufacturer's Description
Designed by Guy Légère in a collaboration with Christoph Hartmann of the Berlin Philharmonic, these reeds will last for months with proper care, providing a beautiful tone with no pre-moistening required.
Top symphonic and jazz musicians have been using the Légère single reeds for more than a decade. From the principals of the Berlin and Vienna Philharmonic orchestras, to jazz greats like Gerald Albright and Hamiet Bluiett, our reeds have been tested at the highest possible level. Now this same exceptional quality is available in a Légère oboe reed.
Like our single reeds, Légère oboe reeds have all the depth and warmth that elite players demand. Because they are made from our specially prepared synthetic material, they deliver all the advantages of a traditional Légère reed; consistency, durability and an instant response. Process
Légère oboe reeds are cut from our own unique polymer on 3-axis, computer controlled precision cutting machines. We can also measure our reeds with extreme precision using computer controlled equipment, and this allows us to maintain very tight quality control.
The reeds are cut in halves using our own customized profiles which are based on a mathematical description of a reed profile rather than a model or prototype. The halves are then bonded together again using a digitally controlled system. The result is a reed which is perfectly balanced in both blades, and has just the right combination of tip thickness, heart, and flexibility.
The Légère European Scrape Oboe reeds have been specifically designed to work for instruments and players that have used European scrape cane reeds in the past. Players accustomed to American scrape reeds may find our oboe reed to be too resistant or otherwise less than ideal. We are developing an American scrape reed in collaboration with some very prominent players in the US, but it is not ready for release, and we do not have a target date.
We are proud to offer Medium-Soft, Medium and Medium-Hard European Scrape Oboe reeds! Our Medium-Soft (MS) reed is the perfect choice for beginners, younger students or players with a more relaxed embouchure. Most intermediate to advanced players should feel comfortable using the Medium strength reed. The Medium-Hard (MH), our original oboe reed, should be reserved for advanced individuals who are used to a stiffer embouchure or players who prefer a firmer reed.
Please note strength choice is subjective and differs greatly by player. These are mere suggestions to hopefully facilitate your decision. Double reeds are not eligible for our Exchange of Strength program and exchanges or refunds will be reviewed on a case by case basis.
While students should start with Medium-Soft or Medium strengths, advanced players may find any of the three strengths suitable for their embouchure.
We use an o-ring system to ensure a good fit between the reed and the well, but this system is a bit less flexible than conventional cork. Some players have had fit issues with older instruments, but our reeds should fit most oboe wells.
