The reed is possibly the most crucial link in the chain of acoustical elements needed to produce an oboe sound. For the nearly 300 years since the appearance of the French oboe, players have painstakingly evolved this highly individualized skill. But because of their fragile nature, original historical examples of oboe reeds are practically non-existent. David Ledet has produced a unique study of techniques for styling oboe reeds by analyzing in detail 168 examples of reeds by 81 artists from 14 countries. Each reed is strikingly photographed both in reflected light and in silhouette, thus clearly illustrating the relative thickness and shaping of the various sections of the reed. The precise dimensions of each example are compiled in an elaborate table. As background to his reed survey, Ledet discusses the various aspects of tone production (respiration, articulation, embouchure, and acoustics), gives a brief history of the instrument, and offers valuable advice about pedagogical techniques. The artists' reflections on their reedmaking techniques and brief biographical sketches introduce the photographs.
Ledet often refers the readers to readily available phonographic recordings that either convey the essence of an oboist's sound or suggest the singularity of a national reed style. Ledet concludes that reed styles can be classified into five major catagories: French, American, Greman, Dutch and Viennese. Ledet has been compiling data for over 30 years and notes when a player's ideas have changed over time. Since some of the artists included are now deceased, "Oboe Reed Styles" should be a valuable historical as well as technical record, essential for teachers, performers and students of all ages and abilities.