Reed organ query

[Robert Goodale]

Jeff Adams wrote:

> I have just finished restoring a 1960 German reed organ which is built the
> same as a traditional American organ.  The problem is, some of the bass
> reeds (lowest octave) go grossly flat after a few seconds of playing and
> worse upon heavy pumping.  Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Itsounds to me like the metal that the reeds are made of are fatigued.  After a
bit of playing the metal warms and softens up a bit.  Then it vibrates at a
slower pace, somewhat like taking tension off of a bass string.  You may have
to replace them.

Rob Goodale, RPT