Richards Wire Banded Oboe Reed Overview

The Richards Wire Banded Oboe Reed in hard strength is a handmade American-scrape oboe reed made by Richard Rath, developed from over thirty years of reed making and informed by his background studying with Dr. William T. Gower (Gower Reeds) as well as his ongoing work as an educator and performer. Built on a standard 47mm tube and shaped to support the upper register, it is designed to deliver a dark, stable, centered tone with even response across the full range, with a wire band that allows controlled adjustment of tip opening to suit changing temperature, season, and humidity.

Richards Wire Banded Oboe Reed Specifications

• Instrument: Oboe
• Reed type: American scrape (long scrape)
• Strength: Hard
• Construction: Handmade
• Tuning reference: Tested for pitch to A=440
• Tube: Standard 47mm tube
• Banding: Wire banded (adjustable tip opening)

Condition 

Brand new

Who the Wire Banded Oboe Reed Is For

The Richards Wire Banded Hard Strength Oboe Reed is a wire-banded, American-scrape oboe reed designed for players who want a dark, stable, centered tone with even response across registers. The long scrape and the updated shape are intended to keep the upper register supported while allowing a darker, more centered sound without relying on excessive biting.

This model is particularly relevant for students and teachers who prefer the added control of a wire band, because the tip opening can be adjusted to match the player’s setup and to compensate for changes in humidity, temperature, and seasonal conditions. The hard strength is best suited to players with the air support and embouchure stability to benefit from a firmer feel and controlled resistance.

Common Questions About The Richards Wire Banded Oboe Reed

What does “wire banded” mean on an oboe reed?

A wire banded oboe reed includes a wire wrap that can be adjusted to slightly open or close the reed, helping fine-tune response and feel as conditions change (temperature, season, humidity) or to match a specific embouchure and instrument setup.

What is an American scrape, and how does it affect tone?

An American scrape is a longer scrape style that is commonly used to emphasize a darker, stable, centered tone while supporting consistent pitch and response across the instrument’s range.

Who should choose the Hard strength?

Hard reeds are typically chosen by players who prefer more resistance and a firm feel, and who have the air support to keep the reed vibrating freely while maintaining a centered sound and controlled upper register.