Hi folks.
hope someone might be able to help here…
I’m listening to the “Heart of the instrument” DVD from NPU and have been doing so for some months to get a better idea of things.
My issue is not with making reeds as such. it’s more of getting certain tools and encountering problems finding what’s needed.
Can anyone within the UK / Ireland please advise me what best to use or what I can get away with using as regards tooling. When I hear the reference “No 4 gouge” I have found a company who supply in canal gouges but they are not numbered. just imperial sizes. this is one of the areas I’m getting a bit lost with.
is there someone who can help me out on this point?
also does anyone have any contact details or a website for Cillian O’Briain
Cheers for reading and hope someone can help
cheers
Lewis
The blind uilleann piper
Hi Lewis
The company that makes the gouges used for reedmaking is Ashley Iles http://www.ashleyiles.turningtools.co.uk/index.html
This link has more about gouges http://forums.chiffandfipple.com/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=67362&start=0
Cillian Ó Briain workshop is Ballyferriter Dingle Co Kerry. I got my reedmaking tools and materials from Cillian old workshop in the Craft village in Dingle. I got gouges, shooting board, sanding blocks, Halving Block ,mandrels, cutting block for tips and Waxed Polymide thread. I also use NPU for reedmaking supply and hobby shop for Brass and copper Tubing.
Tin snips, pliers, hammer, metal file, utility knife, Vernier calipers hack saw, metal ruler can be got at DIY shop or online.
I see you live in Wales. You should contact Allan Moller also in Wales http://www.uilleannreeds.co.uk/index.htm.
Cheers
Ferg
Both will be at the South Wales Tionól on 4th September although Alan Burton is teaching playing and not on the reeds. Alan Moller is there for general reed advice. Both I’m sure would be happy to discuss any queries you have.
cheers
Mei