1 big thing: #4 BLOW

Hello Harp Techs

For us 2nd Position harmonica players, the #4 BLOW and DRAW reeds are super important.

WHY IT MATTERS

• The #4 BLOW (and one octave lower; #1 Blow) is the most important note of the IV Chord

• The #4 DRAW (and one octave lower; #1 Draw) is the most important note of the V Chord

• The #4 half step DRAW Bent pitch is probably the coolest and scariest note for Lovers of the Blues. This “flatted fifth” is what gives listeners goose bumps! In fact, it was the very first “bent” note I learned to play 50 years ago!

TRY THIS

In previous postings I have been advocating a .004” (.10mm) to .005” (.13mm) gap on the free end of the #4 BLOW and DRAW reeds. Due to the phenomenon of reed bending, this low gap supercharged the bending effect of the #4 half step bend, intoxicating but…

Lately on the bandstand I caught myself locking-up my #4 BLOW reed, and maybe you have experienced this issue as well. 

There is only one bent note in the #4 DRAW, therefore, it is not necessary to set a .004” (.10mm) to .005” (.13mm) gap.

I have successfully increased my #4 BLOW and DRAW reed gaps .005” (.13mm) to .006” (.15mm) range. Life is much better ;o)

Your Harpsmith, Kinya