Tech: Northumbrian drone reed adjustment

Subject: RE: Tech: Northumbrian drone reed adjustment
From: smallpiper
Date: 04 Mar 03 - 08:08 PM

Okay then to losen the drones from the stock don't try twisting them the first time you take them out you could split them. Instead try rocking them from side to side gently as you pull (or rather push as you will probably find the only way to grip them is with your palm on the stock and thumb and index finger on the drone) at the same time that should break any seal that has formed and with patience will you will be able to draw them out.

Subject: RE: Tech: Northumbrian drone reed adjustment
From: GUEST,Steve
Date: 04 Mar 03 - 06:05 PM

Thanks Jock for your advice - especially for the caveat.

Bob - I'll inquire about Richard Butler's book, I think that the pics would be of great assistance.

Smallpiper - unfortunately my maker lives 500 miles away from me, so I will have to find help closer to home.

Subject: RE: Tech: Northumbrian drone reed adjustment
From: GUEST
Date: 28 Feb 03 - 09:20 PM

Steve,

Jock Morris is right. The reeds are fitted with a beeswaxed twine that needs to be carefully extracted from the drone.

Richard Butler's Handbook for the Northumbrian Small Pipes, ISBN 0 946928 07 X includes illustrations & advice that will be quite helpful.

Bob vG

Subject: RE: Tech: Northumbrian drone reed adjustment
From: smallpiper
Date: 28 Feb 03 - 06:16 PM

Take them back to the maker and get him to adjust them.

Subject: RE: Tech: Northumbrian drone reed adjustment
From: Jock Morris
Date: 28 Feb 03 - 05:41 PM

I'm pretty sure that they're held in with waxed cotton thread and that you do just have to grab them and pull. Just be sure to pull it straight so you don't snap the drone! Try to twist it slightly to break the seal.

Warning: adjusting your drone reeds for the first time can take an age and lead to frustration and possible insanity!

Scott

Subject: Tech: Northumbrian drone reed adjustment
From: GUEST,Steve
Date: 28 Feb 03 - 05:03 PM

I can't seem to find this in Leistman's book! I hae a set of Burleigh Northumbrian smallpipes.

I need to adjust my drone reeds - but don't know how to remove the drones from the stock. I don't want to yank them where there is another method, and besides I cannot seem to get a good grip on the standing part of the drone.

Am I being overcautious, or is there a special method?
If so, how do you get a firm grip on the standing part?

Any input would be of great help.