TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR SOUND
To achieve a quality and durable sound, a well constructed bagpipe chanter reed has to be blown in. There is no other way, in our experience, to achieve this. To ease the blowing-in period, the following ideas will help:
- warm the reed by massaging the blades between the forefinger and thumb.
- mouth blow the reed. If stiff, slightly moisten the cane.
If stiffness continues, squeeze the sound box of the reed just above the binding. The Troy/McAllister reeds are tested thoroughly before they leave the workshop to ensure the proper balance and strength.
In addition, the reeds are tuned in a specified chanter to achieve the utmost quality. We have found placing one or more reeds in the Piper's Pal for a few days allows the reeds time to absorb moisture. This contributes to making the reed easier to blow. With a good pinch in the tone box, this will factor in making the reed more stable and consistent over time. The Piper's Pal system with a Troy reed has proven a very good match and provides minimal set-up and blowing in time.
Ask us for more information on the Piper's Pal.
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