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The Maker Behind the Reeds

About Ben

Oboe performer, reed maker, and lifelong student of the instrument

My Story

I grew up in upstate New York, surrounded by open land and a deep love of the outdoors — the kind of unhurried, country life that gives you time to really commit to something. For me, that something was the oboe. I started making my own reeds in high school around 2001, and what began as a necessity quickly became a craft I was genuinely passionate about.

Over two decades later, reed making is still one of my favorite parts of being a musician. I'm currently completing my Master of Music in Oboe Performance at the University of North Texas, graduating in May 2026 — a milestone that represents years of dedication to this instrument and everything it demands.

I know firsthand how much a reed affects every aspect of playing — your tone, your confidence, your stamina, even your enjoyment of music. That's why I take every reed seriously, whether it's going to a student just finding their footing or an advanced player preparing for a big performance.

My Philosophy

A great reed shouldn't fight you. It should respond when you ask it to, stay in tune without constant adjustment, and help you produce the dark, rich tone that makes the oboe so special. When a reed does its job, you can stop thinking about the reed and start thinking about the music.

That's what I aim for with every reed I make — responsive, in tune, and easy to articulate, so that playing feels easier, more confident, and more enjoyable.

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Responsive

Reacts immediately to your air and articulation without resistance

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In Tune

Carefully balanced so you're not constantly fighting pitch

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Dark Tone

Crafted to facilitate the rich, dark sound the oboe is known for

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Confidence

When your reed works, you can focus on enjoying the music

Hear Me Play

If you'd like to get a sense of my playing before ordering, I invite you to check out my YouTube channel. You'll find a mix of newer and older recordings there — and I've intentionally kept all of them, including the ones where I'm still finding my way or make a mistake here and there.

The oboe is a journey, and progress takes time. I think it's important for students especially to see that even experienced players are always growing. Nobody starts out playing perfectly — and that's completely okay.

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Caliber Reeds by Ben on YouTube

Oboe performances, recordings, and a honest look at a musician's journey over the years.

▶ Watch on YouTube

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Handmade with care and decades of experience behind every one.
Student or advanced — there's a reed made for where you are right now.

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