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Forums :: Ask Instructor David Barrett

Combo Bends In Strut

1 reply [Last post]
Fri, 01/25/2013 - 13:28
wmartin
wmartin's picture
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Level 1
Joined: 10/13/2012

Hi David. I tongue block and have the notes sound on the right side. I can bend the notes in the song. I enjoyed your study pdf and could do them with no problem. How cool is that. Anyhow what is the best approach to accomplished bending both of them at the same time. Let's say the 4/5 combo. I know you say do the 4 and add the 5 for texture.

My tongue currently is having problems knowing where to go. I blame the tongue on everything. I am getting close but I need a little direction. I tried moving my tongue to the right with no success.

Also, I may have problems with playing 2 notes that are separated. I am unsure of the technique name. E.g. the 1 and 4 holes.

Will

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Fri, 01/25/2013 - 13:56
#1
David Barrett
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ExpertHead InstructorTeacher 10Level 10
Joined: 12/20/2009
Answer

Yes, blame the tongue! ;-) Bending two notes is a challenge at first. Go ahead and use a little more "oomph" when bending two notes... no difference in technique, just go ahead bend the 3 like normal (for a 3/4), but hump the tongue a little more and aim the bending spot slightly farther back.

Tips for playing two holes at the same time?... play the 3 and then...
1) Smirk the right of your face a bit to open the 4
2) or... open your lips slightly and move a tad to the right
3) or... aim towards the back right-hand corner of the harmonica, again squeezing in a tad of the upper note

In regards to octaves... you'll study that in Tongue Blocking Study 4... let's dig into that then...

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