The reedpipe plays the melody line. Large Hornpipe in G - Length approx. The above play the notes of the major scale on open fingering. All have a thumb hole.
Accidentals are obtainable by using forked or cross-fingering.
Unlike most other Mediaeval reed instruments, reedpipes and hornpipes use Single reeds and have cylindrical bores. The former is played by taking the entire reed into the mouth and blowing with the lips pressed against the top of the instrument or a small pirouette for support. A second animal horn on the lower end of the pipe serves as a bell for enlarging and projecting the sound. Both have a back thumbhole. Playing the reedpipe with lips resting against pirouette for support.