Dopplefloete
By Robert Linnstaedt
In a message dated 95-12-06 00:19:01 EST, you write:
> Some of the German organs featured a rank called a
> "doppleflote" which means double flute. These were wooden with two pipes
> built into one, arranged back to back. Normally these were tuned in unison
> or sometimes slightly celeste and played simultaneously.
I fear that there may be some confusion. And the confusion may be all mine. IMHO, what you have here described is not a doppleflote, but a "Ludwig tone".
In contrast, a true dopplefloete is a single wooden pipe (usually stopped) with two mouths on opposite sides.
Though the construction has passing similarity (quadrangular wooden pipe) they are radically different. The ludwig tone will have a septum down the middle dividing the resonator into two distinct areas. Tuning of a ludwig tone is accomplished by a leaf of lead that is bent/rolled to cover the two openings (at the top) and they are correctly tuned a celeste (one flat and one sharp to unison pitch). It is also possible (using a stopper) to tune one at octaves. Tuning them in unison would offer little improvement over a single pipe, as the sympathy (especially with a common body) will negate much of the second pipe's sound.
You did not solicit my comment, so I offer it only as my own, unsolicited opinion, in hopes that it is helpful. Please correct me if I misunderstand.
Thanks!
Robert |
(Message sent Wed 6 Dec 1995, 18:24:50 GMT, from time zone GMT-0500.) |
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