Many musicians in the double reed community are familiar with Dr. Nancy Ambrose King, Professor of Oboe at the University of Michigan. In addition to her work as a performer and educator, she has served as President of the International Double Reed Society (IDRS) and has built a career as a recording artist and international soloist. Her professional background has made her a respected figure among oboists worldwide.

In 2012, Dr. King added another resource to her work with the release of her interactive ebook, Making Reeds: Start to Finish. While the book explains her complete reed-making process, its combination of written instruction and digital media makes it different from a traditional instructional guide.

Designed for the iPad and Mac computers running macOS 10.9 or later, the ebook provides students with access to techniques, tools, and methods demonstrated step by step. It was created to help answer common questions that arise when students are practicing on their own, such as how to approach a particular scraping technique or review a process outside of a private lesson.

The book guides readers through Dr. King’s complete reed-making workflow, from selecting materials to the finished reed. Throughout the lessons, she discusses the tools she uses, explains why she prefers them, and includes a list of major suppliers in the United States where those tools can be obtained.

One of the most notable features of the ebook is its interactive content. Readers have access to:

• More than 15 instructional videos that can be watched as often as needed.
• High-resolution photographs illustrating tools and techniques.
• Interactive images that provide additional detail.
• Hand-drawn diagrams explaining various stages of the process.
• A fully interactive 3D oboe reed that can be rotated and examined from every angle.

The combination of text, images, video demonstrations, and interactive models provides a learning experience that goes beyond what is possible in a printed book.

For anyone interested in learning Dr. King’s approach to reed making, Making Reeds: Start to Finish offers a detailed look at the complete process, along with practical guidance on the tools she recommends.

And if you’re wondering what reed knife Dr. King uses throughout the book… I’ll let you discover that for yourself.

Useful link – https://jendeindustries.com/product-category/reed-knives-and-tools/