Hi everyone!
Firstly, let me say hi to everyone! I hope to participate as much as I can - both asking and answering questions when need be. I'm sure I'll enjoy it - this looks to be a pretty good forum!
Now onto my first question. I have very little understanding about fluid and 'gas' mechanics, however I'd like some help when it comes to thinking about a certain instrument - the bagpipes.
I've played them for about nine years now, and throughout that time, there has been quiet a 'debate' over wether or not the material of the bag affects the tone of the bagpipe. Please understand that 'proper' playing of the bagpipes results in a nice smooth tone - not a bag of screeching cats!
The biggest debate is over the use of synthetic and natural bags. Natural bags made from sheepskin have pores in them from the skin, so we 'season' the skin with a gel like substance. This not only seals the bag, but it also draws moisture, protecting the reeds from excess moisture. However, with synthetic bags (gore tex, for example) this seasoning isn't needed, but the problem of moisture still exists. So we use what is called a moisture control system, where the air is forced through silica gel in a canister before being directed into the pipes via tubes.
Here is where I'd like some clarification.
I presume that the absence of tubes and unnatural flow of air would cause a difference in the movement of the air. With a sheepskin bag, the air is free to move where it wants, but with a synthetic bag, air is blown into the bag where it is forced throught gel and through tubes before getting to the pipes.
But what difference would this make? Would it be enough to audibly affect the sound?
Second, presuming we removed the moisture control from the synthetic bag, would the actual material of the bag directly cause a difference to the sound produced? I don't believe it would, as I believe the sound to be created from the reed upwards, but then again, the flow of air before the reed might affect its operation.
I realise there's a lot said here, I'm sorry if I haven't made myself clear. If you need any more information, please ask, and I will be only too happy to help.
I also apologise if I've posted this in the wrong place.
Sparky
