When should you switch to a new reed on the clarinet?

Question:I play Bb clarinet and i use vandoren 3 reeds. Does tone quality decrease after using the same reed for a long time? If so, when should I switch reeds (how long or what does it sound like)?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I play Bb clarinet and i use vandoren 3 reeds. Does tone quality decrease after using the same reed for a long time? If so, when should I switch reeds (how long or what does it sound like)?

Tone can decrease after a time. Over time several things change e.g. how you blow, the air pressure you use, your embouchure etc. I would try out different brands first. A three in a Rico royal will be a different tone quality than a vandoren. If you aren't satisfied with other brands then try out other sizes. Ask your Clarinet Teacher. They are usually the best judge of your playing since they know you , your tone and your instrument well. Oh ... and break in several reeds together and rotate them while you are playing. That might help your tone since you aren't using the one reed. The one brand can be SO different in Tone quality. You can also try the above suggestion of cutting your reeds with a reed cutter if you find it is the one reed that gives you a poor tone quality. Good luck with your playing!

If I were you, I'd have at least 3 reeds that I could use comfortably. Keep them in a reed holder to protect the tips. After time (depending on duration of use) reed tips get too soft and may split. That is where the spare reeds are called for.

If a favourite reed is too soft, clipping the tip with a reed cutter can help lengthen its life. Reeds that become too soft will let you down when you play in the high register, sounding flat. Reeds that are too hard can be made softer by scraping with a blade near the tip. You will need to experiment.

Good luck!