Category Archives: Trayser

Trayser harmonium at Fisher House, Cambridge

The restored 2 manual Trayser is now installed at Fisher House, the Catholic Chaplaincy to the University of Cambridge.

Traysers are noted for fine build quality and sweet tone. The 8′ Basson/Hautbois is particularly good. This model has the specification of the classic 4 row French harmonium but divided over 2 manuals.
Lower manual: 16′ Bourdon/Clarinette and 8′ Cor Anglais/Flute
Upper manual: 8′ Basson/Hautbois and 4′ Clairon/Fifre (Trayser calls flageolet) plus Fortés.
Manuals couple downwards.
This model also has a “Double Expression” stop, basically a simple wind reducing device with no bass/treble division and rudimentary smoothing by a pair of pneumatics set into the windchest wall. Not to be confused with the complex device of the same name found in Mustels and other art-harmniums. On Double Expression the windflow is restored by opening the left knee lever, which also opens the Forté flaps. The right knee lever duplicates the Grand Jeu drawstop.

Trayser harmonium

Trayser harmonium

Trayser harmonium

Trayser harmonium

Trayser harmonium
Unique Trayser reeds, several tongues in a single frame

Trayser harmonium

Trayser harmonium

Trayser harmonium

Restored Trayser is ready for Fisher House, Cambridge

A two manual Trayser has been restored in our workshop and is ready to be transported to Fisher House, the Catholic Chaplaincy to the University of Cambridge.

A further post will follow.