". . . an extraordinary book, monumental and challenging . . . Buy this book and immerse yourself in it. You will enter a new world." —American Musical Instrument Society NewsletterWith the help of author James McKay, the late Louis Skinner, America's master bassoon reedmaker, documented his techniques for making specialized and general purpose reeds for the bassoon and the contrabassoon. In this work, step-by-step explanations of reedmaking techniques are complemented by photographs and drawings, making every procedure clear. Throughout, the emphasis is on giving practical advice, not just giving steps to follow but explaining why they are important.