Wow, it really worked! Listen (and see on the chromatic tuner) how improved the melodica is! I might go back in and fix my low F, but probably not for now.
I’ve used this melodica live and in recordings for several years now. I think it will go on for a good while longer now that it’s in tune!
I found the Hohner harmonica tuning video invaluable: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pfC9OPmhyuU
However, I hadn’t seen any video explaining how to do this specifically for melodica, so here’s mine!
Steps:
1. Download chromatic tuner software from Katsura Shareware or elsewhere (http://www.katsurashareware.com/piano/piano.html)
2. Check tuning of all notes and write down deviation in cents
3. Open up melodica and save screws
4. Dry it out with a rag
5. Find notes you want to change by plinking or checking which key coordinates with which reed
6. Support the reed with a pen knife
7. File the reed at the tip to RAISE the note, and scrape with knife or edge of file at the base to LOWER the note. Only do 4-5 strokes either way.
8. Plink the reed a few times to settle the tuning
9. Reassemble melodica (power drill helps because you will do this several times)
10. Check tuning. Repeat procedure until you are happy with all/most notes! Perfection may not be attained. I was happy with any note within 10 cents of the note value.
2 comments
Alberto Aponte says:
Mar 22, 2014
You ARE a “jack of all trades”…..How ’bout that! It’s interesting to see how technology can assist with music. I’m looking into purchasing a Music Scanning and Notation software made by Neuratron. I want to create charts from my Salsa library dating back to the 60’s and 70’s. Originally, I was studying Music Composition and Theory from books but have come to realize it’ll take years before I’m qualified to transcribe charts accurately. Someone suggested scanning software and I found this product. Have you heard of it?
Alexa says:
Mar 22, 2014
The one I have used is called PhotoScore (http://www.sibelius.com/products/photoscore/ultimate.html). I have PhotoScore Lite. But to be honest I find it easier just to re-key charts, because there are so many mistakes, dropped bars, rhythm errors, that you have to fix. Chart transcription is a hard task. But a great exercise! In fact that was I was doing today!