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Forums :: General Discussion

breathing in and out at the same time

3 replies [Last post]
Fri, 01/21/2022 - 23:29
whocares
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Joined: 01/16/2022

You draw and draw but you need to go immediately to antoher note and that is also draw

so you have to get rid of extra breath but when you do this  you stop the music flow a little

 

I am trying to find out if there is a way to breath in and get rid of  some extra breath from nose similtanously 

 

Any idea , video tutorial or so?

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Sat, 01/22/2022 - 07:28
#1
Evets
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Joined: 12/07/2019
the FAQ page is your friend

Frequently Asked Questions https://www.bluesharmonica.com/faq     General Technique         I run out of breath so easily!

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Sat, 01/22/2022 - 10:31
#2
Expert Winslow Yerxa
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Joined: 01/16/2010
Circular breathing

Circular breathing is a technique used by saxophonists, where they push air out through the mouth using the tongue as a piston while inhaling the nose. It can work on the opposite direction for harmonica.

Here's a web page about applying circular breathing to the harmonica, from that investigator of everyting esoteric about the harmonica, Pat Missin:https://www.patmissin.com/uncommon/uncommon04.html

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Sat, 01/22/2022 - 19:18
#3
brshoemaker
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Level 3
Joined: 05/06/2020
Tips

I find when I’m learning to play a new song or long lick that I have difficulty with air management as well.  In the beginning don’t worry if you have to stop, take in some air, and start where you left off.  Once you learn the movements and breathing pattern some of the stress is removed and you will start playing more efficiently.  Over time your body will start to realize where and when it can get or let out extra air.

Tips:

Breath with your diaphragm (practice this even when you are not playing the harmonica.)

Stand up or at least make sure you are not leaning forward (for overweight people like me this is really important.) 

Exercise the muscles that work your soft palate.  Say the word “kick” and notice when you pronounce the first “k” your soft palate will close, and you should be able to identify the muscles that are engaging the soft palate.  Practice this even when you are not playing the harmonica and learn to hold the soft palate closed for as long as you can.  Unless you swim a lot your body likely isn’t accustomed to holding the soft palate closed and the muscles need to be exercised to build up strength.

Finally do your best to relax and enjoy what you are doing.  Tension in the neck and chest muscles will work against your breathing while playing.

Bottom line is it takes time for your mind to learn what has to be done, but you will learn it as long as you just keep playing.

Brian in Tennessee

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