What is the difference between a European and American scrape?

A European scrape generally features a shorter windows and a different tip-to-heart ratio compared to the American long scrape. This results in a different resistance profile and tonal focus often preferred by players in European conservatories.

Who manufactures Jones Oboe Reeds?

Jones Reeds is an American family-owned company dedicated to producing double reeds. They are known for their consistency and use of high-quality cane in their manufacturing process.

Is the Medium Hard reed suitable for beginners?

Generally, Medium Hard reeds are better suited for intermediate to advanced players. Beginners typically lack the embouchure strength required to vibrate the thicker cane effectively, making a Medium Soft reed a more common starting point.

How long does a Jones Oboe Reed typically last?

While lifespan varies based on usage and maintenance, Jones Reeds are specifically designed to be long-lasting. Proper wetting before use and careful cleaning after playing will help extend the life of the cane.

Does this reed require soaking before use?

Yes, as a natural cane reed, it should be dipped in clean water for a few minutes before playing. This ensures the cane fibers are flexible enough to vibrate without cracking.

What is the typical price for this reed?

The Jones European Scrape Oboe Reed typically retails for approximately GBP 19. This makes it a mid-range premium option for serious students and performers.

How does the Medium Hard strength affect the sound?

The Medium Hard strength provides more resistance, which often leads to a darker, more stable, and fuller tone. It allows for greater volume and projection compared to softer reed strengths.

Can this reed be used for professional performances?

Yes, Jones describes this reed as ideal for both practising and performing. Its premium quality construction is designed to meet the demands of live concert environments.

Is this reed compatible with all brands of oboe?

Yes, the Jones Oboe Reed is designed to fit standard oboe staples and should be compatible with any standard modern oboe. Individual adjustment may be required depending on the specific bore of the instrument.

How does this compare to the Jones Medium Soft European reed?

The Medium Hard version uses slightly thicker or stiffer cane, requiring more air pressure and lip support. The Medium Soft version is easier to blow but may lack the tonal depth and resistance required by advanced players.

What accessories are recommended for use with this reed?

Maintaining the reed is easier with high-quality swabs, such as those produced by BG. Additionally, using a stable oboe peg like the K&M 17738 can prevent damage to the reed by keeping the instrument secure during breaks.

How does cane quality compare to synthetic reeds like Legere?

Cane reeds like those from Jones offer a traditional organic response and warmth that many players prefer. Synthetic reeds like Legere offer more environmental stability but have a different physical feel and harmonic profile.

Gear article

Jones European Scrape Oboe Reed Medium Hard

The Jones European Scrape Oboe Reed Medium Hard is a premium double reed designed for intermediate to advanced oboists who require a robust resistance and full-bodied tone. Manufactured by the American family-owned company Jones Reeds, it is engineered for both practice and professional performance settings.

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Overview

The Jones European Scrape Oboe Reed in Medium Hard is a specialist accessory distributed by Barnes & Mullins. It represents the sturdier end of the Jones Oboe Reed spectrum, designed to offer a specific balance of resistance and tonal stability. As a European scrape model, it features a distinct profiling style compared to the American scrape counterparts, catering to players who prefer the traditional continental response and voicing.

History and Background

Jones Reeds is a long-standing American family-owned business that has focused exclusively on the production of high-quality double reeds for woodwind instruments. The brand has built a reputation for consistency and longevity, utilizing select cane to ensure that each reed provides a full range of tone. By offering specific scrapes like the European model, the company addresses the diverse pedagogical and regional requirements of oboists worldwide.

Features and Construction

The 'Medium Hard' designation indicates a thicker cane profile and higher resistance, which requires more embouchure support than softer alternatives. Key features include:

European Scrape: Precision-cut to provide the characteristic response favored in European orchestral settings.
Premium Cane: Selected for durability and a long-lasting life cycle.
Quality Control: Hand-finished elements ensure that the reed delivers a full range of tone from the lowest to the highest registers.
Versatility: Suitable for both intensive practice sessions and live performances.

Tone and Character

This reed is characterised by its ability to produce a rich, full-bodied sound. The Medium Hard strength allows the player to push more air through the instrument without the reed collapsing, resulting in a stable pitch and a powerful projection. It is particularly noted for its ability to maintain tonal integrity across the entire compass of the oboe, avoiding the thinness sometimes associated with lighter reeds.

Target Audience

The Medium Hard variant is best suited for players with developed embouchure strength. Beginning students may find this reed too resistant, whereas intermediate and advanced performers will appreciate the added control and dynamic range it offers. It is an ideal choice for those who find the Medium Soft Jones reed lacks the necessary back-pressure for their playing style.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Jones product line, this reed sits above the Medium Soft European Scrape in terms of resistance. When compared to synthetic alternatives like the Legere Signature American Scrape Oboe Reed, the Jones reed offers the traditional feel and response of natural cane. While synthetic reeds like those from Legere are known for absolute consistency across weather changes, many players prefer the Jones cane reed for its organic tonal warmth and traditional European profile.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a European and American scrape?: A European scrape generally features a shorter windows and a different tip-to-heart ratio compared to the American long scrape. This results in a different resistance profile and tonal focus often preferred by players in European conservatories.
Who manufactures Jones Oboe Reeds?: Jones Reeds is an American family-owned company dedicated to producing double reeds. They are known for their consistency and use of high-quality cane in their manufacturing process.
Is the Medium Hard reed suitable for beginners?: Generally, Medium Hard reeds are better suited for intermediate to advanced players. Beginners typically lack the embouchure strength required to vibrate the thicker cane effectively, making a Medium Soft reed a more common starting point.
How long does a Jones Oboe Reed typically last?: While lifespan varies based on usage and maintenance, Jones Reeds are specifically designed to be long-lasting. Proper wetting before use and careful cleaning after playing will help extend the life of the cane.
Does this reed require soaking before use?: Yes, as a natural cane reed, it should be dipped in clean water for a few minutes before playing. This ensures the cane fibers are flexible enough to vibrate without cracking.
What is the typical price for this reed?: The Jones European Scrape Oboe Reed typically retails for approximately GBP 19. This makes it a mid-range premium option for serious students and performers.
How does the Medium Hard strength affect the sound?: The Medium Hard strength provides more resistance, which often leads to a darker, more stable, and fuller tone. It allows for greater volume and projection compared to softer reed strengths.
Can this reed be used for professional performances?: Yes, Jones describes this reed as ideal for both practising and performing. Its premium quality construction is designed to meet the demands of live concert environments.
Is this reed compatible with all brands of oboe?: Yes, the Jones Oboe Reed is designed to fit standard oboe staples and should be compatible with any standard modern oboe. Individual adjustment may be required depending on the specific bore of the instrument.
How does this compare to the Jones Medium Soft European reed?: The Medium Hard version uses slightly thicker or stiffer cane, requiring more air pressure and lip support. The Medium Soft version is easier to blow but may lack the tonal depth and resistance required by advanced players.
What accessories are recommended for use with this reed?: Maintaining the reed is easier with high-quality swabs, such as those produced by BG. Additionally, using a stable oboe peg like the K&M 17738 can prevent damage to the reed by keeping the instrument secure during breaks.
How does cane quality compare to synthetic reeds like Legere?: Cane reeds like those from Jones offer a traditional organic response and warmth that many players prefer. Synthetic reeds like Legere offer more environmental stability but have a different physical feel and harmonic profile.