New reeds have to be played in, for at least 15 minutes before use. Never play anything important on a new reed.

Take a new reed, play a long note i.e. Middle G for 5 minutes. Then put that reed away. During your next session, take that reed and play it for 10 minutes. Have 4 reeds warmed up at all times, in a Hygro box – you must try to keep your reed as flat as possible.

You may find after the first 5 minutes that you don’t like that reed, do not bin it! Put it away, and try it again in a few months, chances are it will be fine.

How to choose your reed

The proper strength reed for you is the hardest you can comfortably play on.

If your reed is too soft your sound will be weak and reedy. Your high notes will tend to be flat and difficult to play. Tonguing will also be more difficult.

If your reed is too hard your sound will be breathy, you will run out of air more quickly and exhaust yourself quicker and your embouchure will tire. Your low notes will tend to be more difficult.