Today we’d like to introduce you to Keith Bjorklund.
The story began in 2012, started by Keith initially as Chicago Oboe Reeds. Since that time, Bjorklund Reedworks has been building a steady client base of satisfied oboists across the entire continent. With nearly 20 years of experience and a drive for constant improvement, Bjorklund Reedworks offers products and services with such attention to detail and quality that is hard to match.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I do not have a business background, so it has been a learning experience along the way. I have been lucky to have some very gracious guidance. This has helped me scale my business and know what to ask for and how. Knowing the smart next move, figuring out numbers, and working smarter and not just harder are still challenges I face every day. I also work in a field of craftsmanship. So from a technical standpoint, I have had to receive some difficult feedback and find ways to make my product appeal to more people. Appealing to a wider audience is of course ideal, but it can be difficult to decipher those needs and then figure out how to deliver on them.
Bjorklund Reedworks – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I make handmade oboe reeds that I provide to oboists ranging from beginners to trained professionals. The oboe is a double reed instrument that still requires a human’s touch to complete the sound producing reed. My mission is to make the process of reed-making more accessible and to bring joy to my clients. I consider myself a micro business. I have a few people who help me but at this time it’s mostly a sole venture.
I am proud that I’ve been able to help my clients make music with more ease and produce a sound they are confident with. I am helping form people’s musical voices and that’s pretty awesome. I work to remain focused on the quality and integrity of my reeds and customer service. Open communication is important to me. I want my clients to feel comfortable talking with me so that I can deliver the best experience for them.
I am also super jazzed about the process and craft of making reeds. I love educating, sharing and learning more about this endeavor. It’s a thrilling challenge to help others by finding just the right way to communicate and connect with them.
What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?
My proudest moment thus far was the launch of my new website last December. It was a fun, collaborative process that culminated in a beautiful end result. I feel it has been an attractive face of my business that is easy to navigate.
I am also super proud any time I hear stories of my reeds out in the world. There is no greater feeling than hearing about my product enriching a client’s musical experience.
Pricing:
- Student Oboe Reeds – $17
- Professional Oboe Reeds – $24
- Oboe Reed Subscriptions – from $19
- Oboe Cane – from $2.50
Contact Info:
- Website: www.bjorklundreedworks.com
- Email: keith@bjorklundreedworks.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bjorklundreedworks/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bjorklundreedworks/
- Other: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIXIBiTb-8p__bzHQAHFe5w
Image Credit:
Brittany Faith Photography
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