I’ve accepted a challenge from a friend to spend tomorrow practicing and reedmaking — except for the time it takes to eat, go for a run, shower, and attend my darling sister’s high school graduation (!) — so needless to say there will not be an update tomorrow.
I’m updating tonight! (Expect a Thursday update on my epic day of bassoon productivity!)
Since I’m going to be working on reeds a lot tomorrow, I’ve been thinking about how to make that time more fun and exciting. There’s no denying that reedmaking, especially making blanks, is kind of boring. You perform a few repetitive tasks over and over. You do get to use razorblades, but once you get used to it, the thrill does wear off a little. But being a good reedmaker is essential to becoming a good bassoonist. You just can’t get around it.
So, how do you motivate yourself to make reeds?
Here are some of my suggestions:
1. Movies, Miniseries, and Television! Every one of my good friends has a list of movies I need to see, and although I often miss a few minutes or more while tying a turban or shaping a particularly difficult piece of cane, the drama and suspense of a great movie (or one of Jim’s latest pranks on The Office) is sure to keep me a happy reedmaker.
2. Playing Some Sweet Tunes It might go without saying, but I love music! Sometimes I like to listen to dance party type music or indie pop or oldies, but sometimes I like to listen to classical music — especially if it has a big bassoon solo! — to motivate me. Plus, maybe it makes the reeds better by osmosis? A girl can dream.
3. Reed-Making Dates Okay, I haven’t actually been on a reed-making date, exactly, but I have had friends come over to my room and talk to me while I work on reeds. This works best in a date-like situation, though, I think, because my friends get a little annoyed with my sometimes delayed responses! Choose your moment carefully on this one.
4. Bassoonist (or Double Reed) Bonding This is much like the above option, except that everyone is making reeds! My class of bassoonists likes to get together to make reeds and it’s pretty delightful. Plus, you can help solve each other’s reed issues. Win-win-win!
Those are my suggestions — but how about you? How do you cope with the burden and time that is reedmaking? Leave your ideas in the comments!
