Bardford,

Hell no. Hitting a melodeon with a stick is no use at all. I use a lead pipe. inch and a half is OK but for the best vibrato I prefer a 2 inch derbyshire lead pipe.

I have tried 4 by 2 wood but it doesn't have the impact so I revert to my good ole derbyshire lead.

Some of the better melodeon players have moved to chain saw for the vibrato and Kangol for the general playing but we are talking about the masters here.

Till I get to that standard I will stick with the lead.

Spot.