Blocked reeds
Mon, 03/09/2020 - 16:53
Hi David,
I'm new to the site and I'm really enjoying learning how to play. I'm having one problem. my harmonica plays well as I'm running through the exercises a couple times, but after several minutes certain reeds get stuck. They eventually seem to free up but it is a major distraction. 1) any idea why this is happening. 2) what is the best way to free up unblock the reeds. This has happened on two A harmonicas. A Special 20 and an East Top.
thanks,
kevin
Hello Kevin, I'm glad you're enjoying your studies.
Tap that harp out (hard whack on your leg) when you feel (or just before) the reeds starting to get clogged (before it stalls).
Head up... this is the most important (don't let gravity do its thing into your harmonica).
Lastly, use a light touch with your tongue on the face of the harmonica.
This is a common issue, and will get better with time.