I think I may be suffering from a sharp second octave, especially the A and B notes. They may be sharp in the lower actave as well. I looked at Pat Sky’s reed adjustment booklet and he suggests pushing the reed further into the socket, also possibly adding a wire rush beyond the d hole, and /or using tape over the tone holes (I would imagine over the top part of the hole?). Any other suggestions that aren’t too drastic ( I am afraid of doing to much to the reed)?
Arbo
I think maybe your reed is seated too deep. Try adding some hemp to raise it up. If you Google Chris Apps, he’s a ghp reed maker with some good pointers on reed adjustment that can be applied to the up as well.
Hi,
I am also a beginner and have noted that the upper octave A and B are a bit sharp.
It has been suggested to me that the reed is still blowing in and to avoid any adjustment until it has settled down a bit more.
My lower octave is in tune
Tim
A slight narrowing of the end of the staple by inserting a sliver of a matchstick or piece of fine wire about half an inch into the end of the staple should bring down the upper octave a little.
How do you attach the piece of wire?
Arbo
Bend it so that it stays in by friction enough to try it out - if it works use a spot of superglue - leave enough sticking out of the end of the staple sothat you can remove it with pliers if necessary.
Like the same process for making a wire rush for the chanter, but on a smaller scale. Use a thin banjo string for the wire?
Thanks for your help. I think I saw this method in Pat Sky’s book.