ABOUT THE DVD: All chapters are in English, French, German and Spanish – you choose the language at the start of the DVD

Part 1: All the basics, explained for beginners

Introduction- the importance of making your own reeds

Tools- shows all the basic tools you need

Tying On- how to tie on correctly with clear images of tying the final knot

Scraping-  explains different reed styles; what each part of the reed does; how to hold the knife correctly and two systems of scraping

General Tips- selecting cane; how to make reeds last longer; organising reeds

Part 2: Advanced Equipment

Machines- Gouging machines; profiling machines; hardness testers and more, presented by Udo Heng

Gouging and shaping- Technical expert Dimiter Jordanov shows how to use gouging and shaping equipment

How to use a micrometer-  clear instructions with measurement examples

Part 3: International Soloists  ** Highly recommended**

A fascinating series of interviews and tips about reed making from:

François Leleux; Nicholas Daniel: Nick Deutsch; Sébastien Giot; Louise Pellerin; Christian Schmitt; David Walter

Part 4: Extra Video

American Reeds – Martin Schuring from Arizona State University explains why they are diffierent to European reeds

Cor Anglais Reeds – with Bram Nolf, Cor Anglais soloist of the Belgian National Orchestra

Oboe D’Amore Reeds – construction and measurements

How to sharpen a reed knife- for double hollow ground and bevel-edge knives