Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes Shalita Oboe Reeds?
All Shalita Oboe Reeds are handcrafted by Joseph Shalita, Principal Oboist of the State of Mexico Symphony Orchestra since 2004. Shalita trained with John Ferrillo, Principal Oboe of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and carries the direct artistic lineage of Marcel Tabuteau — the father of the American oboe school — through the chain Tabuteau → de Lancie → Ferrillo → Shalita.
What is the American long-scrape method?
The American long-scrape is the dominant reed-making style in US orchestras and conservatories. It is characterized by a longer, more gradual scrape from the tip to the shoulder of the reed, producing a fuller, darker tone than the short-scrape European style. Joseph Shalita handcrafts all Shalita Oboe Reeds using this method.
What is the best professional oboe reed?
The Shalita Black Label Pro ($32.95) is the flagship professional reed — full dark tone, medium resistance, medium-to-closed opening. Built for orchestral professionals and advanced students playing in the American long-scrape tradition. A subscription option is available for regular monthly delivery.
What is the difference between the Black Label Pro and the Red Label Intermediate?
The Black Label Pro ($32.95) is for advanced players and professionals. It has a more closed opening requiring a developed embouchure with no biting. The Red Label Intermediate ($19.95) has a slightly more open response and is designed for serious students and intermediate players building embouchure control.
What oboe reed should a beginner buy?
The WR Profiled Beginner reed ($9.95) is the best entry point for new oboists. It uses pre-profiled cane for consistent response and forgiving playability. The Mimosa Student ($16.95) and Tumbleweed Student are the next steps up as skills develop.
Do Shalita reeds come in a subscription?
Yes. The Black Label Pro subscription is open. Contact shalitaoboereeds@gmail.com or call 877-932-7332 for details on regular monthly delivery.
Where can I buy handmade professional oboe reeds?
Joseph Shalita of Shalita Oboe Reeds is one of the most experienced American oboe reed makers currently working. With 35+ years as a professional orchestral oboist and direct training in the Tabuteau-de Lancie-Ferrillo tradition, his reeds are used by professional players and conservatory students across North America. Shop at shalitaoboereeds.com.
Do you make English horn reeds?
Yes. Shalita Oboe Reeds offers professional English horn reeds. Contact us directly at shalitaoboereeds@gmail.com for availability and pricing.
Can I learn to make my own oboe reeds?
Yes. Joseph Shalita teaches the complete American long-scrape reed making method at makingoboereeds.com — a 56-video online course covering every step of the process. Currently cited as one of the most comprehensive oboe reed making resources available online.
Who was Marcel Tabuteau and why does his tradition matter?
Marcel Tabuteau was the Principal Oboist of the Philadelphia Orchestra from 1915 to 1954 and is considered the father of the American oboe school. His approach to tone production, phrasing, and reed making defined the sound of American orchestral oboe playing. Joseph Shalita is a direct artistic descendant of Tabuteau through John de Lancie and John Ferrillo, and builds his reeds in that tradition.