Way of Cane: The Science, Craft, and Art of Bassoon Reed-making

The reed is a crucial component for the bassoon's sound. Many bassoonists, such as Eric Arbiter, choose to craft their own reeds due to the unique needs of the musician and the piece. Reed-making is a nuanced and difficult craft that requires specialized machinery and attention to the thickness and topography of the reed. Arbiter's book, The Way of Cane, provides a comprehensive overview of the craft, with step-by-step instructions, detailed photos, and a companion website featuring the author's own recordings. It emphasizes the importance of the reed to the bassoon's sound and the harmony between reed and musician.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 364 pages
Publication date: 22 September 2020
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

The reed, as the essential component responsible for producing sound in the bassoon, holds immense significance in shaping the overall sound of the instrument. While pre-manufactured reeds are readily available for purchase at music stores, they often fail to adequately cater to the unique requirements and preferences of musicians and the specific pieces they perform. Recognizing this shortfall, many bassoonists, including renowned professional bassoonist Eric Arbiter, opt to craft their own reeds.

Reed-making, a nuanced and intricate craft, demands specialized machinery and meticulous attention to the thickness and topography of the reed itself. When executed flawlessly, this process yields a reed that not only produces a more beautiful and captivating sound but also possesses the resilience to withstand even the most demanding musical performances. In his book titled "The Way of Cane," Arbiter aims to demystify this process for bassoonists of all levels of experience. Drawing from his extensive experience as both a musician and a reed-maker, Arbiter offers a comprehensive yet accessible overview of the craft. He delves into the diverse sound qualities that can be achieved by altering the dimensions of the reed's blades and explores the changes in the reed's behavior as it undergoes cycles of wetting and drying during production.

Arbiter emphasizes that even small variations in these variables contribute to the ultimate goal of producing a bassoonist's ideal sound. The book provides step-by-step instructions, accompanied by detailed photos that further elucidate the reed-making process. Additionally, a companion website features the author's own recordings, allowing readers to appreciate the nuances and complexities of the craft in greater detail.

"The Way of Cane" underscores the paramount importance of the reed in shaping the bassoon's sound, as well as the harmonious relationship between reed and musician. By delving into the intricacies of reed-making, Arbiter empowers bassoonists to enhance their playing and unlock the full potential of their instrument. Whether a novice or an experienced musician, this book serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding and mastery of the bassoon.

Weight: 610g
Dimension: 177 x 253 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780190919627