Hi.
I got my first practise set for about a week ago and I am having a blast with it. I must say I was prepared for weeks and months of unmusical noise, but I am able to play both tunes and scales in both octaves after only a few hours practise. I have played tin whistle, flute and low whistle for years but this is my first go at the uilleann pipes. I am very pleased with my first week as a piper.
The set is a Brian Howard set I got used from a fellow in Australia. All is good, but I would like to have a spare reed ready if something happened to it. I have tried getting in contact with Howard instruments, but no luck so far. I am not ready to begin making reeds myself so I wonder where I can buy quality chanter reed(s) in D?
First thing, no one involved in uilleann piping is every in a hurry, so if you haven’t heard back from Howard after only a few days, give it some more time.
Secondly, reeds are mostly made to measure. The best thing to do is send your chanter to the reedmaker and allow them the time to make a good reed, which plays well in your chanter. Some reedmakers will make you a reed without having your chanter but then it’s up to you to voice and tune the reed.
Finally, if your current chanter reed is playing well, you don’t need a new reed. The reed is the heart of the instrument. Each one is unique. You’ll need to get to know your reed if you want to get the best from it. I’m not a believer in constantly changing my reed. If it isn’t playing well, I will try (carefully) to adjust it. If that doesn’t work, I’ll put the pipes away for a day and see how they play tomorrow.