Ok. So I usually get Danzi reeds (professional) because they are really good. Are there any reeds that compare? Danzis are kind of expensive and they take forever to ship. (Last shipment of 3 reeds took 6 months) Also are there any reeds that don't need to be shaved too much....I have a lessons instructor, but this is at college and he doesn't know how to shave them....and my old instructor didn't teach me. And the closest bassoonist is like an hour or so away. Thanks for me.

Where have you been getting your Danzi reeds? Six months is a long time. Try Miller Marketing, who sell them, if you want to keep on with them. www.millerdoublereed.com

It usually took a week or two, sometimes three. Last time it took like 6 months...I don't remember why...but thanks a million!

Brundage reeds are excellent. I like the shrink-wrap butts even if not "elegant."

Also, soaking reeds in a mixture of about 25% hydrogen peroxide and 75% water will extend the life dramatically (to years?). This was suggested once as a way to revive reeds (with full strength H2O2) but a weaker mixture works great for use all of the time. Buy (say) 10 reeds and play them in order each day regardless of whether you "like" the reed or not. If you really hate it, work on it until it plays well or toss it and replace it with a new one.

One caution, the H2O2 mixture may leak in your case -- keep upright and well sealed!

Hi - how long do you soak your reeds in the peroxide mixture?

Soak until wet -- same as if it were just water. You will see some bubbles -- especially when the reed is "dirty." This is not a "treatment" but a substitute for the usual plain water for soaking.