Chanter Reed

A pipe chanter reed consists of two pieces of cane tied on to a copper staple.  Sizes vary from reed maker to reed maker and each has their own formula.  The sound which comes from the pipe chanter  is produced by a combination of the vibrating reed and the vibrating column of air in the pipe chanter.  Again each pipe chanter is slightly different so the sound produced by the reed is modified by the shape of the chanter.

Use the following as a guide to manipulating your pipe chanter reed:-

Top Hand Sharp - raise reed in chanter.

Top Hand Flat - sink reed in chanter.

Reed Too Hard - gently squeeze at lips or gently sandpaper blades (a little at a time!)

Reed Too Weak - Open staple with a mandril or cut a minute amount form the top of the
both blades with a sharp chisel.

High A Not Clear - Rub fine sandpaper along top of lips or draw your fingernail across.

Individual Notes on Chanter Sharp - Use chanter tape at top of hole to flatten.

Notes on Chanter Flat - Use a small file to remove corner at back of
hole (careful!)