Harmonium, Single Reed, 4 Stopper

On this model there is only one air chamber. One stop acts as a Vibrato. The other three stops increase the air flow to the chamber and therefore the volume.

The Harmoniums are not meant to be played in concert like a mini organ. This is instrument was introduced to India by the British. It has been embraced and is now a truly Indian instrument used as accompaniment in devotional songs. The reeds in the harmonium are tuned to sound well together, not necessarily with other instruments.

As such they are not in concert pitch and are not meant to be. As with many Indian instruments the key for the music is selected to best suite the vocals, or to set a mood. Traditionally, Harmoniums are usually higher pitched if compared to the Western Scale. Harmonium tuning does not reflect the Western Scale and is not meant to.