Ah, it took me a little while to realise that note was even there as I reached for the "missing" note in one particular tune (Planxty Irwin, I think it was). Boy, did I feel a fool when I realised it was on the other row. Ah well, that's learning. Also interesting to learn that one can alter the tangent if one needs the sharp. Haven't needed it (up to now) but great to know. Thanks! Colin Hill ----- Original Message ----- From: John Tappan To: [email protected] Sent: Tuesday, April 22, 2008 6:54 PM Subject: [HG] BUILD: Key placements (2)
To All- If this posts twice, please ignore one or the other. In studying the keybox layout on the plans from Michel Pignol's book, the F5 key is located on the upper (accidental) row of keys. I know that space is tight toward the wheel end of the keybox, and I'm guessing that it's moved up for that reason. I'm also guessing that's why there's no F5' (F5#) key in sight-just not enough space to get it in. I gather by reading this list that those really high notes may not be used all that often. Is this a standard/traditional key arrangement, or something that Mssr Pignol just opted for? It seems a bit "quirky," but that would be in keeping with the character of the hurdy-gurdy itself-it's all pretty quirky. Some builders refer to a "full two octave" range, which should include that last accidental note. Is it primarily a matter of narrowing the key blanks and making smaller holes to make room (assuming the tangent can still be adjusted properly)? And even so, is it worth the effort to make those changes? Thanks for responses in advance. John T
