an adjusting mechanism for longitudinally positioning the reed on the mounting face of a woodwind musical instrument mouthpiece . in one embodiment , the adjustment mechanism includes a micrometer - type screw threadedly engaging a ligature body secured to the mouthpiece which operates a yoke connected to the rear edge of the reed to move the reed tip with respect to the arcuate mouthpiece edge . a pair of longitudinally spaced vertically adjustable rollers bear against the outer surface of the reed to provide transverse pressure for holding the reed in place , while permitting longitudinal movement . the apparatus permits precise positioning of the reed to produce optimum performance with minimum adjustment time . in a second embodiment , the reed is adjustable by means of a lever arm linkage operated by an adjustment screw located on the bottom of the adjustment mechanism . the reed is advanced or retracted by means of a grooved roller which may cooperate with matching grooves on the reed surface . in another embodiment , adjustment is provided directly or through a gear mechanism by a thumb wheel connected to the grooved roller .