Harmonium is a Keyboard instrument that is used primarily in Indian classical/ folklore music.
Introduction
Harmonium is a popular Indian Instrument that is commonly used by Indian classical singers to accompany their singing. The instrument is widely used for providing accompaniment in devotional songs, folk music and classical music.
The instrument is also commonly used by Music teachers who teach Indian classical music, be it singing or for learning the harmonium (the keys are similar to that on a keyboard, its about 3 to 3 and 1/2 octaves long).
In India, Harmonium is also known as the “Peti or Baja”.
In terms of construction, the harmonium is basically a reed organ with hand pumped pressure bellows that pushes the air through the reeds.
Best Harmoniums
In terms of structure, Harmoniums have a fixed keyboard and are quite portable. The Keyboard pops up for play when needed and can be stored in a locked-down position for travel.
If you are going to frequently travel with your harmonium, you can even buy a Harmonium Case, with attached Trolley.
Bina 23B kirtan harmonium
Small, portable harmonium with 32-keys. Its small enough to take on an airplane as carry-on luggage.
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Paul & Co. 3 reed scale change harmonium
This is top of the line harmonium. Paul & Co. harmoniums are made under the guidance of Paul Babu (Batta Krishna Paul), probably the best harmonium maker of his times.
Open – 28 x 10½ x 10 Inches approx. (+/- 1 Inch)
Close -28 x 10½ x 7 In approx. (+/- 1 Inch)
Weight: 12 to 15 KG approx
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MAHARAJA DB Harmonium
This Mahogany Color harmonium has 39 Keys, and is a popular option, its also cheaper compared to the other options mentioned above. It comes with Book & Bag.
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Harmonium: Buying Guide
Although they all look the same, small variations do exist, and you can choose from a wide selection of makers and models to match your specific needs.
- Different types of harmoniums are available – Folding, upright, portable, 2 reed, 3 reed, 4 reed and mini harmoniums, as well as a selection of surpeti (also known as a sruti box or shruti box) and scale change harmoniums.
- Popular brands include Paul & Co., Bina, Paloma, MKS (Manoj/Monoj Kumar Sardar), BB (Bina Music Center) and MM harmoniums (Musician’s Mall)
Harmoniums History
It was invented in Paris, way back in 1842, though similar instruments were being concurrently developed.
This is contrary to the belief that many people in the Indian-Asian community have, who think it was invented in India.
The fact is that the Harmonium Keyboard instrument was introduced to India by the British during the colonial period, somewhere in the 19th century.
What Does a Harmonium Sound Like: Video
Here’s a video that shows how a Harmonium sound like. Its more of an introduction to the musical instrument.
You can even use a melodica to create this kind of sound but you have to play it through your mouth, which means you cannot sing together.
With the harmonium, you can sing along at the same time!
If you’ve no background of music and intend to learn to play the harmonium, this is a good start.
How to Fix Buzzing Sound on Harmonium
Buzzing sound from a harmonium is easy to fix, and its not that bad as it sounds. This is a fairly common “problem” in harmoniums. The harmonium is a free reed instrument, and the reeds are somewhat fragile. The tip of the reed can become misaligned and touch its body, causing the “buzzing”, “rattling” sound. This is fairly easy to fix, as you can see in the videos below.
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HARMONIUM movie, an amazing Japanese film.