40% Softly
Tue, 09/16/2014 - 08:34
In a recent tip of the day you mentioned playing softly, 40% of maximum volume, as normal volume in order to provide lots of dynamic range. So I've taken that to heart and am trying to do all my practicing at 40%. I'm guessing you chose 40% somewhat arbitrarily but it clearly indicates play really softly. It's all a bit easier said than done. Would you recommend acoustic practicing at as low a volume level as is needed to hear myself and not trying to project into the room? Thanks!
No, I feel 40% is right on the number (plus or minus a few :-). Yes, practice at that 40% and then bring your volume up when the music calls for that emotional punch. It's not a bad idea to practice projecting every now and again, this is helpful when you're playing for people when there is no microphone. Recently I played in front of 50 people with no mic, so I need to project, without destroying my harmonica.