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Hey Musicians, does high altitude affect the performance of wind instruments like harmonicas, oboes, clarinets, etc.?

Asked by LuckyGuy (43691points) February 24th, 2022

(I’ve done some searching and don’t see any mention of this effect but I am sure I noticed it. I even posted on a harmonica forum website but got no response.)

I was at a National Park at an altitude of about 7500 ft where the air pressure is about 35% to 40% that of sea level. I began to play my harmonica for fun and to encourage my grandchild to dance around a little.
I noticed the reeds seemed “leaky.” More air seemed to blow by and pass around the reeds without making the usual sound. I needed a greater volume of air to make sound. Of course, the air is less dense and likely has lower viscosity so it makes sense that things would be different but I don’t see any mention of this.

Has anyone here ever noticed this effect with other reeded wind instruments?
Are there special high altitude tunings for performances at high altitudes?

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