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 Instructor David Barrett

Is salivation bad technique?

4 replies [Last post]
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 11:34
Norlo28
Norlo28's picture
Offline
Joined: 12/29/2023

Hi David! I heard someone saying that salivation is result of bad breathing technique. Is that true? I try to breath from my diaphragm and always play with clean mouth but sometimes moisture clogs the harmonica or maybe a reed flattens a bit until the instrument dries. What do you think about this topic? Thanks

Top
Thu, 10/10/2024 - 06:59
#1
David Barrett
David Barrett's picture
Offline
ExpertHead InstructorTeacher 10Level 10
Joined: 12/20/2009
Hello Norlo28. I have not

Hello Norlo28. I have not heard this, or observed this in students. I do know that as time goes on, as a students overall technique improves, saliva issues get better. The most important thing is to not look down at your laptop sitting on the desk... the downward head angle allows saliva to flow into the harmonica. Head up.

Top
Thu, 10/10/2024 - 14:29
#2
Norlo28
Norlo28's picture
Offline
Joined: 12/29/2023
Good to know and YES will try

Good to know and YES will try to play with my head in a better position! Thank you!

Top
Sun, 10/13/2024 - 07:27
#3
UkuleleRob65
UkuleleRob65's picture
Offline
Level 8
Joined: 06/06/2014
A harmonica is not food

Norlo: Rick Estrin is famously quoted as saying that it took years for his mouth to learn that the harmonica is not food. Yes, keeping head up helps (a lot). But time with the harp in the mouth will help, too.

Top
Mon, 10/14/2024 - 07:22
#4
Norlo28
Norlo28's picture
Offline
Joined: 12/29/2023
Good to know that salivation

Good to know that salivation is really a common problem. And yes, I keep it in my mouth... That's why me neighbour upstairs hates me LOL!!

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