Na Píobairí Uilleann

[Johnniez]

Hi

The opening of the reed for my Uilleann pipe chanter has more of an arc on one side than the other. Actually its almost flat compared to the other side.

Any ideas on how to fix this before I mess it up on my own??

tnx

Johnnie

[WilliamH]

Hi Johnnie;

That fault is usually fatal.

I've heard reports that it can be helped by untying the reed blades and binding them to a suitable cylinder, to restore the inner curvature of the blades - possibly after wiping very lightly with a damp cloth first - then leaving them for a day or two to 'set'. I think it's a bit of a dicey fix but may be worth a try if the reed will otherwise be discarded.

Occasionally this problem is caused by a bridle which is asymettrical and placing odd forces on the reed - in which case it might be partly reversible by re-shaping of replacing the bridle. However if the reed blades have warped significantly this is probably not enough.

The above assumes that this is not your only working reed, and that you are a reedmaker. If not, then you should seek reedmaking help before trying to "improve" or "restore" this reed.

Bill