Iraklis Fragatzis
Cane Producer
About Us
Every oboist knows the importance of a high-quality reed in producing a beautiful sound and affording ease of playing. As an oboe graduate of the Athens Conservatory, I share this appreciation. For the past 20 years I have devoted myself to the development and perfection of a reed possessing optimum qualities of durability, hardness, and tone.
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reeds with the
highest quality standard
Iraklis Reeds are cultivated in the unique microclimate of the Greek islands, where “meltemi” winds optimally balance the humidity level of the sea air as it nourishes the local sandy clay soil. The cane matures under these ideal conditions, allowing it to be shaped into reeds of the highest quality standard, with long-lasting durability and a rich, warm, sonorous tone.
Iraklis Reeds offer ease of playing, with an exceptional durability of 20- 25 days per reed. They are available in diameters of 9.5mm to 15mm and at hardness ratings of 10 to 17 (Reeds ’n Stuff hardness tester). Our reeds enjoy one very special advantage. When a musician decides upon a desired hardness level, they can be assured of an almost 100% success rate.
Iraklis Reeds come in a 10-piece set, pre-gouged because of our very precise cane quality control. We offer reeds of 0,65-0,70 thickness for oboe and English horn and 0,80 for baroque oboe.
Quality
the diameter of the cane’s vascular bundles
“Most discussion of the identification of reed quality is focused on external appearance. The fundamental problem with this approach was explained to me by Kunibert Michel when I visited him in Hanover, Germany, in 1997-98.”
Iraklis Fragatzis
Cane Producer
Let’s Make Things Happen
You are welcome to experience Iraklis Reeds. Individual sample sets of 15 pieces at all hardness ratings are available at no cost except for shipping & handling.
Iraklis Fragatzis
Cane Producer