About the reed maker

Hi! My name is Mariah, and that's me and the name sake of my business, Raven! I am a professional bassoonist and educator based in Kansas City. My passion for making bassoon reeds goes all the way back to when I took out a "loan" from my mom for just over a hundred dollars to buy bassoon reed making supplies way back in high school, and I'm so excited to continue that passion today by serving others.

I received my Master in Music Performance degree from Bowling Green State University and my Bachelor in Music Education degree from Kansas State University. I'm also an active performer, playing second bassoon with the Kansas City Civic Orchestra and Ad Astra Music Festival and having previously played in a graduate wind quintet, the BG Philharmonia as well as having substituted with the St. Joseph, Toledo and Adrian Symphonies. I maintain a private studio called Kansas City Bassoon Academy where I am able to serve pre-college and adult students in a welcoming and fun environment. I am also the founder and artistic director of Fountain City Bassoon ensemble. This ensemble is a community group focused on bringing together bassoonists of all ages and ability levels for fun and camaraderie.

My goal is to send out bassoon reeds all across the country that help you be the best bassoonist possible and feel confident in your playing. My reeds are easy to articulate and play in tune, and are comfortable to play for long periods of time. Bassoon is already a difficult enough instrument to play, and I believe that having good reeds can make the world of difference and allow you to focus on other skills.

Connect with us on instagram @raven__reeds or Facebook as Raven Reeds, we'd love to hear from you!