A trip to France

I’m excited to share the details of a recent Creative Scotland funded project that took me to the VAR region in the South of France, home to some of the world’s most respected cane growers and reed manufacturers. This experience was not just successful, it was transformative. It provided me with a wealth of insight into the intricate process of reed making, all the way from field to finished product.

Connecting with the Global Reed Community

While in the VAR region, I had the privilege of meeting with several experienced cane growers, many of whom play a central role in the global cane and reed-making industry. Being on location allowed me to forge connections not only within France but also with international figures whose influence reaches far beyond Europe.

These interactions were invaluable. They offered hands-on learning and opened the door to potential collaborations and long-term partnerships that could strengthen and evolve my own work in reed-making.

From Soil to Sound

One of the most enlightening parts of this journey was witnessing the entire lifecycle of the cane. I followed the process from when the cane is still growing in the ground, through harvesting and drying, to the final grading and transformation into playable reeds. This immersive experience gave me a much deeper understanding of how each stage, especially the early ones, affects the final product. I observed first-hand how cane is selected and tested, and how its properties are evaluated for different musical instruments.

Industrial Innovation Meets Traditional Craft

Another highlight was learning about the industrial-scale machinery used in the production of clarinet and saxophone reeds. While these instruments differ from the bagpipes, I discovered several techniques that I was able to adapt and apply to my own reed-making process. These innovations have already begun to improve the consistency and precision of my reeds. In a field where subtle differences can drastically affect tone, pitch, and response, these improvements are game-changers.

Finding the Ideal Cane for Bagpipe Reeds

One of the key outcomes of the trip was identifying the ideal type and diameter of tube cane best suited for Hebridean Reeds. I explored how different cane dimensions and characteristics impact the tonal quality and responsiveness of the reed; critical factors for pipers seeking a refined, reliable sound. This new knowledge has allowed me to select raw materials with far greater confidence and accuracy.

Sustainability Practices

I was particularly fascinated by the maturing process of the cane, an essential but often overlooked aspect of reed making. I learned how cane is aged, stored, and tested to assess its suitability for use in high-quality reeds.

It was reassuring to find that even the most advanced, established reed-making companies encounter some material waste. Not every piece of cane meets the necessary acoustic standards. However, rather than being discarded, unsuitable cane is composted. This sustainable practice not only reduces waste but also enriches the soil for future crops.

I was genuinely impressed by the commitment to organic and environmentally responsible growing methods. No chemical treatments are used at any stage, making the process safer for everyone, from the reed maker to the musician.

From France to Shawbost

This trip was more than a professional visit; it was an education, an inspiration, and a catalyst for the future of my work. I return not only with new ideas, techniques and materials, but with an added vigour to create the very best reeds possible.

Stay tuned for future posts where I’ll be sharing more about how these insights are shaping Hebridean Reeds.