Wind chimes could be an excellent addition to any home, both in the melodies they produce and the artistic beauty they hold. The tones coming from these chimes can be amazingly calming to the spirit as well as the ears. Many of the most peaceful moments I have enjoyed have been in the late afternoon, sitting on the porch of a small desert cabin, a cool breeze easing away the day’s heat, the gentle music of the chimes adding a quiet serenity to my hectic life. Like nature’s soundtrack. Like eavesdropping on angels. Absolutely wonderful. I especially love the idea that they are produced by people and yet the timeless melodies are literally brought to life by nature.

Wind chimes come in a large assortment of materials, colors, shapes and sounds. They can be made from wood, glass, bamboo, copper, brass, aluminum, steel, stone, seashells, and plastic. Each material has a characteristic sound; some are sharp and bold like metal, while others, such as wood and bamboo, put out a softer tone, or ring with the high-pitched, but more subtle, sound of glass. Some of the more famous designers are musicians who know how to blend the individual sounds into a peaceful and enjoyable experience.

Wind chimes’ sizes vary from just a few inches to over 6 feetin length. The longer and wider the tube the lower the tone. There is something about the low, lasting, reassuring sound of a bamboo or wood chime that can bring tranquility; a pleasant and gentle sound that seems to resonate with the surroundings. The shorter, narrower tubes produce a higher, lighter and more lively sound, giving you a feeling of being lifted by the breeze.

The two main types are Corinthian chimes and Woodstock chimes. Corinthian wind chimes, which date back to antiquity, are made of several hollow or solid tubes of different lengths and diameters and even materials. The tubes are attached in a circle from a disk with a clapper hanging between the tubes. As the wind moves the clapper, it strikes the different tubes and produces different notes. Woodstock wind chimes are similar to Corinthian chimes, but are finely tuned to produce music with melody and harmony. This design is found everywhere because of the ability to tune it to produce music from other countries. Classical, western, oriental, middle eastern, even Gregorian music has been replicated with Woodstock chimes. These wind chimes are enhanced with animals, birds, butterflies and other aesthetically pleasing figures.

If you are looking for a quick, inexpensive way to improve your patio, porch or deck, wind chimes are the way to go. They will add an entirely different “feel” to any outdoor space.

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