ZAMPOGNA IN G

To match different playing styles and repertoire requirements, the instrument is available in 4 key configurations:
• Standard (No Keys): Traditional, streamlined setup without keywork.
• With Key on the Ritta (Short Chanter): Adds an extra E (MI) key on the short chanter for expanded melodic reach.
• With Key on the Drone: Adds an F (FA) key on the drone alongside the D (RE), D# (RE#), and E (MI) notes.
• Full Setup (Dual Keys): Includes both the E (MI) key on the Ritta and the F (FA) key on the drone for maximum harmonic and melodic versatility.

The Zampogna features two chanters mounted on a single wooden stock: the Ritta (Short Chanter) handles the upper melodic register (D, D#, E, F / RE, RE#, MI, FA), while the Manca (Long Chanter) covers the lower register and accompaniment (F#, G, A, B, C, D / FA#, SOL, LA, SI, DO, RE). They are played simultaneously to produce polyphonic melodies.

The drone can produce 4 distinct notes: D (RE) by covering the rear thumb hole, D# (RE#) by half-covering the hole, E (MI) by opening the hole, and F (FA) by pressing the drone key (on keyed versions). Tuning is adjusted by sliding the drone up or down (pulling out to flatten pitch, pushing in to sharpen pitch) while sounding the corresponding reference notes on the chanters.

The Ritta, Manca, and drone all use high-stability synthetic reeds. They require zero maintenance and are unaffected by moisture. If they are functioning correctly, they should not be adjusted or modified. The average lifespan of a daily-played reed is approximately 2 years.

Stable arm pressure on the leather bag is essential for keeping the instrument in tune. Inconsistent squeezing will cause pitch fluctuations regardless of how well the reeds are set. Before attempting fine tuning, practice maintaining a steady, uniform pressure on the bag.

Always warm up the instrument by playing for at least 10 to 15 minutes before adjusting reeds or tuning holes. In most cases, minor pitch discrepancies resolve naturally once the wood warms up with airflow.

Isolate one chanter at a time by placing a wooden plug into the unused stock socket. If a note is flat, seat the reed slightly deeper into its seat. If a note is sharp, apply a small piece of tape or beeswax to the upper edge of the tone hole to decrease its diameter and flatten the pitch.

The genuine leather bag comes pre-treated with custom seasoning grease. If minor air seepage occurs after about a year due to natural leather stretching, test the bag by plugging all stock outlets and inflating it. Contact us for our dedicated leather grease; never use Airtight Seasoning or commercial Scottish bagpipe products.

Every time you finish playing, detach the blowpipe from the bag stock. Never allow saliva to dry on the joint wrappings while attached to the stock, as thread wrappings can rot and the wooden stock risks cracking. If the valve loses its seal, wrap Teflon tape around the plastic tube.

To prevent the wood from drying out or cracking, oil the internal bore of the chanters and drone 1 to 2 times a year using **100% pure sweet almond oil only**. Do not use other oils or solvents. Never use ALCOHOL for external cleaning, as it will dissolve the hand-applied shellac finish; clean the exterior with a dry wool cloth only.

Cold weather lowers the pitch (flat), while heat raises it (sharp). Avoid playing in extreme temperatures below -3°C to -5°C (23°F to 26°F) to prevent thermal shocks that could crack the wood. Never use hairdryers, heaters, or direct sunlight to dry or warm the instrument.

When inserting or removing the Ritta and Manca from the wooden stock, grip **exclusively near the top mount/joint**. Never apply twisting force or leverage on the middle or lower section of the chanter stems, as the thin wood can snap easily under rotational stress.

To inspect the keys, open the pin or loosen the protective cover (carter) screws gently using small screwdrivers—never overtighten, as small threads can strip. Apply a single drop of light lubricant (e.g., WD-40) near pivot points if needed, taking care not to over-saturate.

Absolutely. As direct artisan builders, we provide ongoing post-sale support for tuning adjustments, replacement synthetic reeds, custom seasoning grease, and repair/maintenance services for all our Zampogne.