No one likes the taste of reeds…well, almost no one…there are those strange folks out there. Growing up as a sax player I always wondered why reed makers didn’t add a little flavor to their reed offerings, at least for us kids just starting out musical adventure.
Lo and behold, now that I’m an adult flavored reeds are here…but were they worth the wait? In this blog post, I will delve into the world of flavored reeds and explore their effects on sound, lifespan, cost, and more.
Whether you’re a seasoned musician or a beginner, this guide will help you make an informed decision about whether flavored reeds are right for you.
Are Flavored Reeds A Thing
Flavored reeds are indeed a thing. They are standard reed that has been infused with sugarless flavoring to enhance the player’s experience by creating a pleasant taste in the mouth when playing.
Flavored reeds can be a creative and enjoyable option for some musicians, yet it’s important to remember that they may not be suitable for everyone. Some believe the flavor of the reed…or rather, the flavoring agents…affects how it vibrates and thusly alters the tone created by their instruments. Therefore, it’s recommended that players try flavored reeds before making them a regular part of their routine.
In short, flavored reeds are an existing and genuine item in the market that can lend musicians a creative spin on their playing experience. While more geared towards younger players that can’t get passed the bland taste of reeds, some experienced players may enjoy them too, as a result, different strengths of reeds that are catered to more advanced layers are on the market.
What Are Flavored Reeds
Flavored reeds are standard cane reeds that are designed to have a specific taste or flavor added in, usually with a food-grade flavoring agent. Some of the most common flavors used include mint, vanilla, and fruit flavors like strawberry or cherry.
These flavored reeds are designed to provide the same playing experience as a traditional reed, with the bonus of having a pleasant taste and a pop of color. One huge hurdle parents and teachers face is getting their kids to practice, flavored reeds help eliminate the nasty taste of reeds (especially new reeds) so it’s one less excuse kids can use.
How Long Does The Flavor Usually Last On A Flavored Reed
In general, flavored reeds will last for several months while packaged but the flavor will fade after a few hours once playing has begun. Duration of play or improperly storing the reed can greatly reduce the flavor.
As with any reed, after playing make sure to store it in a reed guard and then place it in the accessories compartment of your instrument case. This keeps the tips of the reeds from being broken or splitting and also keeps the reed out of direct sunlight. Never store the reed on the mouthpiece, this can cause the reeds to warp, making it nearly impossible to flatten out.
Are Flavored Reeds Bad For Your Saxophone Or Clarinet
This one is up for debate. Some players say that the flavoring agents can clog the pores of the reed and hinder vibration, making for a muddier sound. However, the prominent manufacturer of flavored reeds, “FavoReeds”, says that the sugarless flavoring won’t hinder playing or stain the instrument.
Utilizing flavored reeds has both pros and cons for saxophones and clarinets. For starters, it helps get kids practicing and gets them excited to show off the new “thing” they got for their instrument.
But, in addition to any potential physical hindrances they might cause, they can become a crutch for kids. What I mean by this is that eventually they will want to move away from flavored reeds and will have to get used to that woody, bland taste sooner or later.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of Using Flavored Reeds
Maybe I’m reiterating the pros and cons a bit much, but for such a small and inexpensive instrument accessory, flavored reeds have created a bit of a taboo in the classroom and among saxophone and clarinet players. So I want to make sure I cover all my bases and help you make a more informed decision.
Pros Of Using Flavored Reeds
- Improved Playing Experience – Some musicians report that the added flavor can make the reed feel more comfortable in their mouth and improve the overall playing experience.
- Enhanced Tone – The flavor can affect the way the reed vibrates, leading to a brighter or more focused tone, depending on the type of flavor and the playing style of the musician. While con in some cases, this change of tone can be good for others.
- Aesthetic Appeal – With their vibrant colors, flavored reeds can create a striking visual impact on any musician’s setup, ensuring that their instrument is the center of attention.
Cons Of Using Flavored Reeds
- Short Lifespan – With the addition of flavor, flavored reeds can have a lower lifespan than their traditional counterparts as they are more likely to break down at a faster rate.
- Inconsistent Tone – The taste can also affect the reed’s vibration, causing a sound that can be too muddy or too bright.
- Cost – Although flavored reeds tend to be more expensive and may need replacing sooner than regular reeds, the cost difference is quite minimal.
- Staining Potential – Some flavored reeds contain coloring agents that can leave residue on the instrument and potentially stain it.
To sum it up, flavored reeds can be a useful addition to your playing experience and may give you an improved tone. However, they also come with drawbacks such as shorter lifespan, inconsistent sound quality, price-point value, and the potential of staining your instrument during use.
How Should Flavored Reeds Be Stored To Extend Their Life
To extend the lifespan of flavored reeds, it is important to store them properly. Here are a few guidelines for storing flavored reeds:
- Keep Them Dry – Flavored reeds can absorb moisture, which can cause them to warp or become brittle. To prevent this, store the reeds in a dry place.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures – Excessive heat or cold can cause the reed to expand or contract, which can affect its shape and sound. Store the reeds in a temperature-controlled environment.
- Keep Them Out of Direct Sunlight – Direct sunlight can cause the reed to become brittle or fade, reducing its lifespan.
- Store Them in A Protective Case – Keeping the reeds in a protective case can help prevent them from getting damaged or warped, as well as keep them organized.
- Store Them Away from Strong Odors – Strong odors from other items can easily be absorbed by the reeds, affecting their flavor and smell.
- Don’t Play Right After Eating – This is good advice for any type of reed. After eating or drinking, make sure you either brush your teeth or thoroughly rinse your mouth out with water before you start playing. Not only does this keep your reeds more pristine, it also prevents food particles from getting into your instrument.
By keeping to these simple instructions, musicians will be able to enjoy the distinct tones of their flavored reeds for longer. Doing so guarantees a reliable and enjoyable sound every time they play.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Makes Flavored Reeds And What Flavors Do They Have
While many reed companies have dabbled in flavored reeds, the main source currently is a company called FavoReed based out of Indiana here in the United States. Their current flavor lineup includes:
- Blue Raspberry
- Strawberry
- Bubble Gum
- Cherry Red
- Watermelon
- Cinnamon
- Grape
- Mint
- Piña Colada
The reeds that these flavors are on also have a bright pop of color that matches the flavors except one, cinnamon, which keeps the reed’s natural tone coloring. Some band directors have banned the more colorful reeds from their classes and concerts but will allow the cinnamon reeds since they aren’t a distraction.
Will Flavored Reeds Stain My Instrument
In general, colored reeds can be more likely to cause staining than clear or unflavored reeds since some brands contain coloring agents that can leave residue on the instrument.
Musicians should research the manufacturer of flavored reeds to verify if they have any coloring agents that can cause staining. If there are, a mouthpiece or reed guard is recommended for protection against instrument discoloration. Therefore, it’s important to look into this before using flavored reeds to safeguard your valuable instruments from stains and damage!