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Forums :: Ask Instructor David Barrett

3 hole whole step draw

4 replies [Last post]
Fri, 01/04/2019 - 14:24
vid wes
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Joined: 09/29/2017

HI David,

I'm trying to figure out why my 3 hole whole step draw has such a bad sound.  I can hit the pitch correctly but the tone sounds choked and weak.

Suggestions?

Thanks

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Fri, 01/04/2019 - 15:24
#1
David Barrett
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ExpertHead InstructorTeacher 10Level 10
Joined: 12/20/2009
Hello vid wes. It's probably

Hello vid wes. It's probably because it is choked. Work on finding the bend with very little tension with your tongue (and no tension anywhere in your mouth). If it doesn't bend, you're in the wrong spot for the tongue. Experiment, experiment, experiment... that's the name of the game. Try using more of the middle of the tongue, further forward in your mouth. Try using more of the back of your tongue, further back in your mouth. Some combination will yield a better-sounding bend.

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Wed, 01/30/2019 - 07:06
#2
vid wes
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Joined: 09/29/2017
3 hole whole step draw bad intonation

Hi David,

I wanted to follow up on this.  I've tried experimenting and have not been able to find a tounge position that gives me a better sound. 

Do I need to be worried about this or will it just get better over time as my overall harmonica skills improve?  I've been playing for about 14 months

Thanks

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Wed, 01/30/2019 - 08:41
#3
David Barrett
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ExpertHead InstructorTeacher 10Level 10
Joined: 12/20/2009
Hello vid wes. Exactly, you

Hello vid wes. Exactly, you don't need to worry about this, it will get better over time as your overall harmonica skills improve. You have the bend, so the general mechanics are there, good tone will come with time.

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Thu, 01/31/2019 - 13:46
#4
vid wes
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Joined: 09/29/2017
3 hole whole step draw bad intonation

Okay, thanks.  I can relax. :)

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