windchest
A windchest is a crucial component of many pipe organs and some other wind instruments. Its primary function is to store and distribute compressed air to the individual organ pipes. In a pipe organ, the windchest is typically located beneath the pipes it serves. It is essentially a large, airtight box or chamber filled with air under pressure. When an organist plays a note by pressing a key, a mechanism opens a valve that allows air from the windchest to flow into the corresponding pipe, causing it to sound.
The construction of a windchest can vary significantly depending on the size and type of organ. Historically,