Breathy notes
Tue, 04/22/2014 - 14:26
I don't know if this is a harmonica techy question or a technique thing.
I am studying the LOA1 and getting an unclear sound on 2 and 3 blow when doing the solo harmonica studies. The triplet 2,3,2 is very breathy like there is a 'huff' before the notes starts. And even when the notes starts it is very breathy. I also have trouble with the 4 to 3 draw because the 3 gets strangled.
I don't think they are related problems, but that's what's happening.
Is it tongue position or the hole not being cleanly open?
Thanks. Dave.
Good morning Dave.
You're exactly correct, it's tongue position, for both. Your tongue is in a position that is prohibiting those reeds from vibrating freely. Your tongue is raised and slightly forward in your mouth, the goal is lower your tongue.
Using a mirror, open your mouth and experiment with your tongue location so that you can visually confirm your tongue position. The tip/top (blade) of your tongue is on the face of the harmonica, but the rest of your tongue (middle front to rear) should be level or below your teeth line of your lower set of teeth.
The 2+, and to a lesser degree the 3+, are generally sensitive reeds, so in addition to the tongue position adjustment you'll want to play them softly.
This is all normal experimenting, take your time, you'll get it.