How to avoid drawing too much air
Hi, I am studying the first song Walk with me.
I have a problem regarding the beginning of the 2nd Chorus (and basically all 1 Draws)
When I draw the first hole for three clicks, then blow 2 for only one click and then again 1 draw for 4 clicks I happen to be unable to draw in more air. My lungs are full, sometimes even when I am even starting the second 1 draw.
I am learning at 70 clicks per minute - maybe thats too slow?
What do I do? I was practicing this for past few days, trying to relax, reposition my harmonica in my mouth etc, but nothing seems to help significantly. I am nowhere close to look as relaxed during this part as you do in the instruction video.
I happen to use Harmonica in C key (I have hohner special 20) - might that be the problem?
Thank you.
Oh, thank you! I will check it out. And I will make sure next time I go through the FAQ's first.
When I was learning Walk with Me I had the very same problem in the same spot. I decided when my lungs get too full, stop playing the long-held note and quickly get rid of the extra air, then continue with the next note. I continued to work on how to fix the problem, but I did not let it stop me from playing the song. It didn't take long, either through something learned or physical conditioning, but the problem went away.
With that said, I still have problems with too much air building up in my lungs with some of the solo harmonica study rhythms. One in particular I have been working on for over a month, yesterday I finally played the line though without lungs bursting. So far much of what I have learned at bluesharmonica.com is impossible until it isn’t Just keep at it and you will get it.
Thank you for sharing brshoemaker. brshoemaker, keep in mind that your solution is learn how to open your nose when you need to get rid of air while you play blows notes.
Thanks for your answer, it motivates me to see someone farther the road who overcame same problem :)
Hello OneTony. This is a common challenge when playing the harmonica. I have a lesson video here https://www.bluesharmonica.com/faq, click on "I run out of breath so easily!"