Techniques for Breaking in a New Reed

Chris Apps demonstrates techniques for breaking in a new bagpipe chanter reed. Includes explanations for both molded reeds and ridge-cut reeds. Ensure your reeds play at the best strength right from the start.

[@gctaylor111]

Thanks for putting this up. I have purchased your reeds, book, and mandrel but seeing you explain helps put it all together.

[@piperbob2]

All good advice Chris - as always !

[@JBrooksNYS]

So you got the ridge reed down to 26 but how do you get a molded reed down that much?

[@KPJ-qu6bp]

What is Key of that reed and can i by one as practice chanter.thanks

[@joetrimble7953]

Chris, Can you tell me please, where do you get one of those nifty pressure gauge? I guess it would help if I knew what it is called. Thanks in advance. Never mind I see one on your site.

[@AppsReeds]

Glad to hear. We have them in stock if you would like one.

[@joetrimble7953]

Thanks, I found it and placed an order with you. That is a nice website you have there. I will have to keep you in mind and give one of your chanter reeds a try in the future.

[@diegobac5067]

I play a megarity reed (ridge cut) That really looks agressive, no problem?

[@andyb8659]

Great tip. Any thoughts on how to free up a reed that chokes a lot?

[@AppsReeds]

Sounds like your reed blades need to be lighter. Give them a scrape.

[@KilwinningPiper]

Chris, -- Watching you soften a G-4 ridge-cut reed, my questions to you is: Do you need to repeat this agressive process before you play each time or is one time sufficient?

[@Stification]

Hi Chris, when you Flex the ridgecut does that affect the tone much?

[@AppsReeds]

Hi Stu,
Not much. Certainly not anywhere near as much as a straight cut reed.
Chris

[@efrainu9994]

awesome video. Now I can play the Platinum Reeds. My question is, Does it reduce the life of the reed??

[@AppsReeds]

Efrain U It shouldn't do. It will just free the reed up and make it more manageable.

[@efrainu9994]

Awesome. I really appreciate your tips.

[@ashgall8118]

Hi Chris. I really enjoy your videos. They have helped our band greatly.
However, Is there any way to adjust the reed to sharpen the "High A" only, without moving the other notes? Or would I have to sink the reed down and re-tape the other notes?
I don't want to drill the chanter holes, yet. But it seems almost every type of reed I try has this problem.

[@scottbaker3876]

Hey if you put the reed in just a touch it should be ok. Effects the top notes more drastic then lower ones.