REED STOP Meaning and
Definition
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A reed stop refers to a specific type of musical instrument stop used in pipe organs that produces sound through the use of a reed, which is a small strip of metal attached to a vibrating brass tongue inside a pipe. It is commonly found in organs, both electronic and pipe, and is known for its distinctive and unique timbre.
The reed stop is typically made up of metal pipes, with a conical shape and a narrow opening, allowing air to pass through. When the organist presses a key or activates a stop on the organ console, a valve allows air to flow into the reed pipe. As the air passes over the reed, it causes the metal tongue to vibrate, producing a distinctive buzzing sound. The pitch of the sound is determined by the length, thickness, and tension of the reed tongue.
Reed stops are known for their powerful, bright and often brassy sound, resembling the timbre of brass instruments such as trumpets or saxophones. Due to their intense and often piercing character, reed stops are suitable for creating dramatic and vibrant musical effects, enhancing the overall tonal palette of the organ. They are frequently used in fanfares, festive compositions, and to accompany powerful singing in organ music.
Overall, the reed stop is an essential component of the organ's sound production, adding a unique and distinct character to its tonal range and making it a versatile and expressive instrument.
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A set of pipes in an organ furnished with reeds.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for REED STOP
- eeed stop
- deed stop
- feed stop
- teed stop
- 5eed stop
- 4eed stop
- rwed stop
- rsed stop
- rded stop
- rred stop
- r4ed stop
- r3ed stop
- rewd stop
- resd stop
- redd stop
- rerd stop
- re4d stop
- re3d stop
- rees stop
Etymology of REED STOP
The term "reed stop" in the context of musical instruments, particularly the pipe organ, originates from the instrument's construction and its use of reed pipes.
The word "reed" derives from the Old English word "hrēod", which referred to a type of plant with long, hollow stems. These stems were commonly used to make musical instruments such as panpipes. "Hrēod" eventually evolved into "read", and then "reed" in Middle English.
In the context of the pipe organ, a reed stop refers to a family of pipes that produce sound by using a metal tongue, known as a reed, that vibrates when air passes over it. The term "stop" comes from the verb "to stop", which originally referred to blocking or closing an opening. In the case of the organ, the stops control which pipes are allowed to sound by opening or closing the air passageways.
Similar spelling words for REED STOP
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