Anistratov Schäferpfeife

The addition of metal keys to the Schäferpfeife chanter is not a mere convenience, but an invitation — an invitation to explore a broader, more nuanced musical language within the voice of the instrument.

Each chanter may be fitted with between one and five handcrafted metal keys, depending on the musical needs of the player. These keys extend the chromatic and harmonic capabilities of the instrument, providing access to accidentals and auxiliary notes without compromising the integrity of traditional fingering. Among the most commonly requested are keys for the minor third, minor sixth, major seventh, and augmented fourth, though further configurations are available by consultation.

These keys are made from high-quality brass or nickel silver, fitted with care and voiced individually to blend seamlessly with the natural acoustic properties of the chanter. Their low-profile design ensures comfort and precision under the fingers, whether playing from the bench or on stage.

In addition to melodic keys, a discreet chanter shutoff key may be installed — allowing the player to silence the chanter entirely with a swift, smooth action. This mechanism, often visible in instrument photographs, enables clean starts, dramatic pauses, and moments of pure drone resonance in ensemble or solo performance.

For further control, an optional main stock drone shutoff valve can be installed within the drone stock itself. This feature permits the player to interrupt airflow to all drones at once — allowing for quiet tuning, piece transitions, or performance techniques requiring a momentary silence of the drone bed.

These mechanical refinements are implemented not for their novelty, but in service of musical expression. Every key, every valve is designed to offer the discerning player greater freedom, precision, and grace — while preserving the visual and acoustic elegance of the instrument.