Reeds and Bellows

Harmonium Reeds

Most harmoniums have two sets of reeds for each key, tuned an octave apart. The lowest set of reeds are called the bass reeds, and the higher reeds are called male reeds. Some larger harmoniums have a third set which are an octave higher than the male reeds, called, not surprisingly, female reeds, but these are not often used for kirtan.

The reeds are mounted on the bottom side of the key/reed board.

Pressing a key releases this air across the reed(s).

The air flows into the body of the harmonium and into a triangular manifold which directs the air into the bottom of the case where the second bellows is. Springs on the bottom of case push up on the lower bellows forcing air through any open stops and into the reed chamber, where pressing a key causes the reed or reeds to vibrate, making beautiful music.