Where do clarinet reeds come from?

The wood used for making clarinet reeds mainly comes from the Arundo donax plant, commonly known as giant reed or Spanish reed. This plant grows in wetlands and can reach heights of up to 10 meters (33 feet). It is native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Asia, but it has been widely introduced to other areas of the world.

The Arundo donax plant has a long, hollow stem with narrow leaves and a large, bushy panicle at the top. The stems of the plant are harvested and processed to obtain the raw material for making clarinet reeds.

The harvesting of Arundo donax for clarinet reeds typically occurs when the plant reaches maturity, usually after several years of growth. The stems are cut down, and the outer layers are removed to reveal the inner core, which is the most suitable part for making reeds.

Once harvested, the Arundo donax stems undergo various processing steps to prepare them for reed making. These steps can include seasoning, cutting, shaping, and curing. The processing techniques and methods used may vary depending on the reed maker or manufacturer.

After processing, the Arundo donax cane is ready to be turned into clarinet reeds. Reed makers use specialized tools and techniques to cut and shape the cane into the desired dimensions and shape, creating the playable reed used in clarinets.