I have all-state auditions on Saturday, and I always get a little panicy before a big audition, so I'm very nervous right now.

Anyways, I have a new oboe reed that is kind of hard, and it is harsh. It is a handmade reed, so it is very pretty. It is just very open and I have to pinch the reed with my teeth to comtrol the sound, and I know that this is a no-no.

How can I get this reed under control without shaving it?

Do you have an oboe teacher who can adjust reeds? That would be the best thing to do, I think. Otherwise, reeds do soften up some and close slightly when they are broken in, so try getting it to break in some without wearing it down too much. But the best thing to do would be to talk to an oboe instructor and have them help.

Yeah, I agree with you, I will be playing on the reed a lot tomorrow, so I think I can get it wet and worn down just enough to be in perfect shape for the audition. Thanks.

But that's why I was worrying, because I won't be able to get to see my instructor until after Saturday.

But it's all good now, thanks. Lot of topics about oboe reeds, eh? xD

Pinching the blades together works well. Don't over-soak your reed. It will not make it any better.

If you're really in a pinch, take a pair of flat-nosed pliers ( you can buy them at a craft store in the jewelry-making section) and squeeze the front flat side and the back flat side of the reed gently with the pliers after the reed has been soaked.