To put a reed on a clarinet, follow these steps:
- Soak the Reed: Before attaching the reed, it’s important to soak it in water for about 1-2 minutes. This helps soften the reed so that it vibrates properly when you play. You can also just hold it in your mouth for a few seconds to moisten it.
- Place the Reed on the Mouthpiece: Hold the reed by the flat (thicker) end. Align the reed with the mouthpiece so that the curved side of the reed is against the flat part of the mouthpiece. The top of the reed should be flush with the top of the mouthpiece.
- Position the Reed: Slide the reed down so that it covers the opening of the mouthpiece completely. It should line up neatly with the edges of the mouthpiece without overlapping.
- Attach the Ligature: The ligature holds the reed in place. Place the ligature over the reed, aligning it with the metal ring on the mouthpiece. Tighten the screws of the ligature just enough to secure the reed, but don’t over-tighten it—ensure there’s still a little flexibility.
- Check Alignment: Ensure the reed is centered and aligned properly with the mouthpiece. The tip of the reed should be in line with the tip of the mouthpiece, and the reed should not be crooked or tilted.
- Test the Setup: Once everything is in place, blow through the mouthpiece and check if you get a good sound. If there’s a buzzing sound or no sound at all, the reed might need repositioning.
That’s it! You’re now ready to play your clarinet.