Flue reed in pipe organs

A flue reed is a specific type of pipe in a pipe organ. Pipe organs are large musical instruments that produce sound by pushing air through pipes. In an organ, pipes are usually classified as either flue pipes or reed pipes, depending on how they generate sound.

How a flue reed works

Flue reeds produce sound by directing a steady stream of air through a narrow opening known as the flue. This airflow strikes an edge inside the pipe, causing the air to vibrate and create sound. Unlike reed pipes, flue reeds don’t rely on a vibrating reed. Instead, the pipe’s shape, structure, and air pressure determine the pitch and tone of the sound.

The sound of flue reeds

Flue reeds produce a range of tones depending on the size, shape, and materials used in the pipe. Although they lack a physical reed, flue reeds can be designed to mimic the sound qualities of certain reed-based instruments, such as the oboe or clarinet.