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Forums :: Ask Instructor David Barrett

Drawing And Blowing Problems

6 replies [Last post]
Fri, 09/18/2020 - 10:18
HarpLearner1138
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I seem to get a metallic buzz whenever I draw or blow holes 1 and 2. I am a beginner who just got a SilverStar today and I don't know what to d. What should I do ?

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Fri, 09/18/2020 - 14:10
#1
David Barrett
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Joined: 12/20/2009
Hello HarpLearner1138,

Hello HarpLearner1138, welcome to the site, and the harmonica. This is a very common issue. Take a look at the FAQ section (https://www.bluesharmonica.com/faq) and watch the first video titled, "My 2 draw and/or high-end notes sounds flat, airy or not at all!" This will take some time, but you'll get it, keep at it.

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Fri, 09/18/2020 - 21:19
#2
HarpLearner1138
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Oopsie

I left it overnight, hole 1 seems to be fine, but the 2 hole draw is still not working.

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Fri, 09/18/2020 - 21:19
#3
HarpLearner1138
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Oopsie

I left it overnight, hole 1 seems to be fine, but the 2 hole draw is still not working.

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Fri, 09/18/2020 - 21:33
#4
HarpLearner1138
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Oopsie

I left it overnight, hole 1 seems to be fine, but the 2 hole draw is still not working.

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Fri, 09/18/2020 - 21:33
#5
HarpLearner1138
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Oopsie

I left it overnight, hole 1 seems to be fine, but the 2 hole draw is still not working.

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Sat, 09/19/2020 - 07:36
#6
David Barrett
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Joined: 12/20/2009
Hello HarpLearner1138.

Hello HarpLearner1138.

That's good. I would assume that saliva had congealed around the reed. It's a good idea to give the harmonica a good whack on your leg a couple of times after a playing session to clear saliva.

For the 2 draw, you could try to rinse the harmonica under water for about 30 seconds to see if it helps. After rinsing, tap the harmonica again (into a hand towel this time) to clear out all of the water. Do this a couple of times. Once you've cleared all the water from inside the harmonica, then play it softly for a bit and then continue normal play. Maybe this will help.

Again, 70% of harmonica players have trouble playing the 2 draw, so don't assume it's the harmonica. Obviously you found it was spit for the 1, so maybe rinsing will work, but do keep in mind that the 2 draw is a known issue for new players.

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