Does anyone know how to correct a reed that is slow to speak? The response of the reed when I lift a finger or fingers to sound a new note (up scale) is not as snappy as it should be. Especially noticeable on low E. I play a Wenham concert D chanter with cane reed and copper tubing staple. I am making my own reeds these days, so willing and able to try any suggestions no matter how drastic.
Thx!
Deisman
Take the upper third of the reed-blades flat between thumb and index finger. Support them by thumb and index finger of the other hand. Then press it as hard as you can. Don´t worry - nothing can happen to your reed. The cane fibres (of different hardness) get squeezed into each other. The reed-blades thus close better and the reed´s brilliance and performance improve immediately. You´ll have to repeat this from time to time.