Reluctant reed rarely sounding

[JennyB]

One of the reeds (F, 11 above middle C) is very reluctant to sound closing bellows. Fine opening bellows. Tried bellows shake type action in case it has something fouling it, but doesn't Make any difference. Any tips for what to try next?
Thank you
Jenny

 

[JIM D.]

http://www.accordionrevival.com/ACCORDION_REPAIR1.php#Trouble-shooting_silent_reeds

 

[debra]

Jim's link has all the information you need, except for the initial step of the detective work: is this a new instrument or an older one? If it is a new instrument then it is possible that the reed opening isn't properly adjusted. The web page explains that it is the reed on the outside of the reed block and you can already see whether the reed opening is the problem or not by comparing it to the notes next to it. If the instrument is older and the note has always played just fine than it is likely that something is blocking the reed. The reed opening does not change significantly over time. I have seen many people try the bellows shake type action to cure the issue (even professional players) but almost always this is to no avail. The gentle plucking action may work better and running a needle or razor blade edge around the edge of the reed may also help.
The problem is almost never something serious.

 

[JennyB]

Thank you both very much - it sounds a bit daunting opening up and taking out blocks, but I will try to get my head round the instructions and have a go. It's actually a 1950s Marinucci that has been overhauled and the problem has only just started, so I am hopeful this might do the trick.
Very best wishes
Jenny B

 

[debra]

Thank you both very much - it sounds a bit daunting opening up and taking out blocks, but I will try to get my head round the instructions and have a go. Its actually a 1950s Marinucci that has been overhauled and the problem has only just started, so I am hopeful this might do the trick.
Very best wishes
Jenny B

If the problem started just after the overhaul I would ask the repair person to fix it. It is possible that during the overhaul an attempt at tuning the reed changed the reed opening just enough to cause the reed to start with difficulty. It is also possible that some dust or metal particle (for instance from tuning other reeds) got in between this reed and the reed plate and blocks it.

 

[JennyB]

In fact the accordion was back in the restorer's for a different problem unrelated to this, so it could be that that was when something got into the reed - unfortunately I live 200 miles away, so it's always a performance if I need to get something fixed.

 

[colinm]

Jennyb, whereabouts are you, most accordionists can assist with taking a reed block out?
Cm