Skip to main content
Blues Harmonica logo

User Account

Username:*
Password:*
Forgot Your Password?

Visitor Menu

  • Sign Up
  • Sample Lesson #1
  • Sample Lesson #2
  • Student Recordings
  • Forums
Forums :: Ask Harp Tech Expert Kinya Pollard

Gapping and tuning approach

3 replies [Last post]
Mon, 08/31/2015 - 12:35
Stef
Stef's picture
Offline
Level 4
Joined: 06/21/2012

Hi Kynya! I wondered what was your approach with regards to tuning and gapping, i.e. should one come first or it does not matter, can we skip one (like only tune and be fine) or are both required. I ask because I have Richerd Sleigh book in which he really insists on the importance of "shaping" the reed (adjusting the curve), then adjusting the offset of the reed BEFORE tuning. Do you see things the same way?

Top
Tue, 09/01/2015 - 08:24
#1
Harp Tech Kinya...
Harp Tech Kinya Pollard's picture
Offline
Expert
Joined: 02/07/2010
Hello Stef, it's good to hear

Hello Stef, it's good to hear from you.

Yes, Richard, myself, and most harp techs see it that way. Reeds are spring metal that can be fussy when handled--e.g. reed shaping (gapping, curling, profiling). Do yourself a favor and shape first, then tune. You'll thank me in the morning ;o)

Your Harpsmith, Kinya

Top
Tue, 09/01/2015 - 09:07
#2
Stef
Stef's picture
Offline
Level 4
Joined: 06/21/2012
Makes it clear!

Thanks Kinya. That's what I thought, but in the video series, although it's a great one, you don't address this, and since the tuning one comes first, one might logically conclude, that this step should also come first.

Top
Tue, 09/01/2015 - 18:23
#3
Harp Tech Kinya...
Harp Tech Kinya Pollard's picture
Offline
Expert
Joined: 02/07/2010
Ah so ... good call. Your

Ah so ... good call.

Your Harpsmith, Kinya

Top

Sign me up!

Full access to all lessons starts at $20/month! (with annual subscription)

Subscribe

Free Sample Lessons

After watching the BluesHarmonica.com overview video, try one of the lessons below to experience a lesson at BluesHarmonica.com.

  • Tongue Blocking Study 2 – This study is for the newer player or the player new to tongue blocking
  • Bending Study 5 – This is for the advanced player looking to improve their bending skills

Contributors

  • Aki Kumar
  • Joe Tartaglia
  • Gary Smith
  • Mark Hummel
  • Joe Filisko

Site Links

  • About David Barrett
  • Accredited Instructors
  • Links
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Contact Us
Hohner
© 2009 - 2025 David Barrett and the Harmonica Masterclass Co. for Bluesharmonica.com