Uilleann Pipe Chanter Reed "Crowing" The uilleann pipe is dry-blown, therefore the reeds are made extra thin so as to vibrate when they are not softened by moisture. Therefore do *not* blow them by mouth because they will soften excessively and may permanently warp or collapse shut! Instead, put the bottom (the staple) into the mouth and inhale gently. At a very gentle pressure you will hear a pure high tone. Increasing the suction gradually, the sound will become complex and raspy. The sound file illustrates the behavior of my reed. There may be a better "crow" for all chanters or at least for some chanters. Comments graciously accepted! Also, a chanter reed should be shaved or sanded enough that it can be sucked completely shut with a sudden quick, strong inhalation. This is demonstrated in the other sound file. End of uilleann pipe chanter crow.