Bending On Different Model Of Harmonicas
Hi Kinya,
I've been playing, wood-shedding actually, for a little over a year. I began with the Special 20 and recently purchased a couple Marine Bands. My current study song, The Strut-on the D harp, has me easily bending a whole step on the 2 draw (for example) with the Special 20. Can you tell me why I can't even get close to the "ease" of bends on the Marine Band?
Thanks for your time,
Bill
The 1896
Hello Bill
You probably received the memo that the Hohner 1896 harmonica is the gold standard for virtually all professional harmonica players (including David Barrett ;o) The caveat, however, is that most professional players call upon the services of Richard Sleigh, Joe Filisko, Joe Spier--to name the top harp techs--to "customize" their 1896 MB harmonicas before they hit the band stand.
Unless you purchased vintage harmonicas, the reeds on your modern SP20 and MB are "exactly" the same! The variance in response could be in reed gapping tolerances, comb air-tightness and reed plate slot tolerances.
I had the privelage of working with Richard Sleigh at David Barrett's 20th anniversary Harmonica Masterclass Workshop and learned he is accepting new customers for his harmonica customizing services. Contact Richard @ rrsleigh@gmail.com
Your Harpsmith, Kinya
I'll definitely be keeping that in mind about the customizing, although I realized (I think) at this point it may be an airtightness issue (with me). What with the coverplates open on the side and the slight overhang of the reed plates over the comb on the 1896, I've found slight change in mouth postioning and embochure have made a difference so far. I'll still be continuing my lessons and practice with the Sp 20 and eventually "phase in" the 1896.
Your help and advice are much appreciated.
Bill
Hi Bill
Which of the Hohner Marine Band's did you purchase:
Your Harpsmith, Kinya