Chanter Hz

[Pete Buchan]

Has anyone out there an ABW army pattern Hardie chanter.If so then what does it play Low A at? Mine from 1970 plays low A at 451 Hz.My poly McCallum plays low A at 473 with the same chanter reed.I am aware that the pitch has increaced over the years and think that this is the reason I cant get my 3/4 size Hardie tennor drones to tune without nearly falling off the pins,I have longer tennor Eezies on order.The mounts on my 3/4 match the sole on the Hardie chanter this is why I want to use this chanter also the tennon fits into the 3/4 stock.Has chanter pitch changed so much over the years.I would appreciate anyone sharing similar experiencewith me that they have had on this theme.
Mfg Pete.

[Iain Sherwood]

Sounds like the throat has closed up somewhat; in 1970 it should have played around Bflat, or 466-7.

[Wulls]

Pete,
remember the reed seat height is very different between the two chanters you mention. I would try setting the low and high As together in the hardie then check the frequency it tunes at.
You will probably have to remove a fair bit of hemp.......

[pancelticpiper]

Yes 451 is too low for a Hardie of that vintage, which usually play around 466 with most reeds.
But then again 473 is too low for a McCallum, which usually play around 480 with most reeds.
Perhaps you're using reeds that play very flat and/or you're taking the readings in cold conditions? Try some different types of reeds.