The purpose of this study is to address the longstanding disadvantages of the use of Arundo donax in the modern oboe reed. The first part of the study comprises a review paper detailing the history of Arundo in music and explaining the mechanical shortfalls of the material. The second part is an experimental paper wherein several reeds were analyzed to demonstrate the wear and degradation of Arundo during its use. Both papers have been submitted to the journal of the International Double Reed Society for publication. This study successfully demonstrated the changes in sound quality undergone by a cane reed when subjected to long-term use.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Blais, Zachary E

Subject

• Culture
• Industry

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-011911-112924

Keyword

• Musical instruments
• History

Advisor

• Shivkumar, Satya

Year

• 2011

Date created

• 2011-01-19

Location

• Worcester

Resource type

• Interactive Qualifying Project

Rights statement

• In Copyright