How to adjust your reed to your requirements?
October 24, 2023Your role as a parent in your child's musical development
October 30, 20231. Hi Manon! Can you tell us about your role and responsibilities at Steuer?
As a Tabling Specialist at Steuer, my main responsibility is to handle the crucial process of tabling the cane segments. Tabling involves using specialized equipment to flatten the inner part of the reed, which will be in contact with the mouthpiece. After the cane segments have been prepared by our skilled team, it's my role to ensure that each segment undergoes precise tabling. This process requires using a machine with three different-sized sanding discs to achieve the desired levels of flatness and smoothness. The tabling operation is critical, as it directly influences the sound quality of the reed.
2. What do you most enjoy about your work as a Tabling Specialist?
What I find most fulfilling is the opportunity to contribute to the final shaping on the back of the reeds. I’m also responsible for measuring the thickness of the segments once they have been tabled.
For example, for clarinets, the Classic model has a thickness of 2.80 mm (0.110 inch), while the Exclusive model averages 3.15 mm (0.124 inch) in thickness. Bass clarinet reeds reach a thickness of 3.30 mm (0,130 inch). The models for baritone saxophones can reach a thickness of 3.90 mm (0.153 inch) !
These are technical considerations, and I don't want to overwhelm you with numbers, but it's an integral part of my job. Being able to fine-tune the tabling process and witness the transformation of the cane segments into harmonious reeds is truly rewarding.
3. Lastly, is there a message you'd like to share with our musician community?
To our incredible community of musicians, thank you for inspiring us with your passion and dedication. We strive to deliver reeds that enable you to reach new heights, and I’m happy when you’re happy too!