Fundamentals and Deagan

Here is something interesting regarding the missing fundamental effect commonly found on percussion instruments such as chimes (aka. tubular bells) and cymbals. One of the most famous instrument makers to address the tuning and design of tubular bells was J. C. Deagan. His name lives on in the wonderful instruments that are still in existence today. Amazingly enough, he persuaded the American Federation of Musicians to adopt A=440 as a standard universal pitch in 1910. Funny, tubular bells are mostly tuned at A=442.

If you are on the north side of Chicago, check out the old Deagan factory at 1770 West Berteau Avenue. The old Deagan Tower stands, and Century Mallet is now doing repair and maintenance of mallet instruments.