Putting a Smile
on your old reed
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Under some circumstances or conditions, or for no apparent reason at all, a chanter reed may simply
collapse. The tips of the blades lose their curve, become straight, and align themselves very close
together. When blown, they produce little or no sound. This sometimes happens when a reed gets wet
and then dries too quickly or when a reed is pinched down too radically. However it happens, it's money
down the drain unless you know what to do.
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In order to understand how to fix the reed, it's important to understand how it was made in the first
place. The two blades of the reed are carefully shaped and ready to bind to the copper staple. Before
doing to, the maker soaks the blades to make them pliable. He binds them together and allows them to
dry before finishing the reed. The result should be a reed with a modest smile that is responsive and
free when mouth blown. Of course, the reed will require breaking-in and further adjustments to deliver
optimal sound and performance.
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When I discover a reed in this condition I reintroduce the "smile" by forcing a shim between the two
blades. I generally fashion these shims by cutting strips from a business card or other laminated card
stock. Depending on the thickness of the shims, I force two or three down between the blades. I then
soak the reed in order to relieve some of the strain on the blades and to help it reform closer to its
original shape. I put the reed into a pill bottle and allow it to dry for 24 to 48 hours. I may visit
the reed just to ensure that no mold is present.
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Following this drying period, I remove the shims and inspect the reed. The blades should be slightly
concave. If the opening is too great, it can easily be pinched down. With a bit of experimentation
your results will become more and more predictable. You may not be able to save 100% of your unhappy
reeds however you'll be surprised just how many can be brought back from the brink! Good luck and let
me know how you make out!
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