Sound production in the reed organ and harmonium

Abstract

The free reed instruments of European origin, which originated around 1800 and were developed over the next 50–75 years, include the reed organ and the harmonium. These keyboard instruments enjoyed a period of great popularity beginning around 1840 and lasting until the early 20th century. They were widely used in homes and churches, and appeared in a variety of instrumental ensembles, including the salon orchestra. They are close relatives of the harmonica and the accordion-concertina family, but unlike these instruments they are not in wide use today. This paper discusses the fundamental mechanisms of sound production in the instruments as well as means used to alter the tone quality, which include the design of the wind system, effects of the chambers in which the reeds are mounted, and details of the reed tongue design. The presentation will include audio examples of the reed organ and the harmonium employed in various musical contexts.