Various functions in a Harmonium : Details by Delhi Musical Stores (DMS)

Coupler provides the effect of richness in the sound of the Harmonium. This is because it uses an extra octave connected to the one octave lower/higher by the help of steel wires under the keyboard which enable the same key of the higher/lower octave to function when the lower/higher corresponding note is played. Thus providing a three set effect with the help of only 2 sets. There are two types of couplers.

(1) Right (2) Left.

Coupler can also can be disengaged if the user is not using the function by simply pulling the coupler lever backwards. (As shown in the image above.)

( / is the above would mean OR)

Single Bellow

Double Back Valve

Valve is fitted on the back of the Harmonium on

bellows. This is from where the air is transmitted into the bellow and

passes to the inner bellow.

Bellows are one of the most important components of a Harmonium. These are made of cardboard used

 with leather to provide air to the reeds of the 

Harmonium.There are two bellows in a Harmonium.

Inner and Outer. 

(Outers are shown in the pictures above)

By continuously pumping these, the air passes through the inner bellow and reaches the reed board where the stops redirect the flow of air to different sets of reeds depending on the model of the Harmonium.

Once the stops are opened, the air passes through 

the reeds and comes out of the holes under the keys which are played on the keyboard to provide the

sound. Bellows are of various types. The above shown are double bellows and Multifold bellows.

Scales in Scale Changer Harmoniums

9 Scales shown in the image above

Sliding Jali in a Harmonium

is a feature that uses a sliding frame of wood fixed into an outer frame with

the same size of holes to control the Volume and Tone of a Harmonium.

By closing the Jali (above left) the volume and sharpness of the 

Harmonium reed sound reduces thus giving a soothing and softer tone.

By opening the Jali (above right), the volume increases and 

the sound of the reeds can be heard clearly with crisp sound.

(Jali is available on special order on any model other than Scale Changers)

Reed Sets in a Harmonium.

(Verticle reed board shown in the picture above.)