Several consecutives draws
I've almost solved my problems with draws but then a new fight begins.
When I play several consecutives draw notes I begin to struggle.
Have I to bite the notes (note by note) or just let the inhaling air play them?
I am using tongue blocking, and the way I am trying to play them is just inhaling and doing the less sucking I can in order to avoid bending.
I try to drop my jaw every note but I am breathless at the end of the series.
May be you have just give me the answer with your question. How can I make an articulation using my throat?
The most common way to articulate while in a tongue block is to use "Ka." The challenge with "Ka" is that it's very close to the area in which we bend on the harmonica. So, the challenge is to articulate without bending. You can use your throat, and this is achieved by closing and opening your vocal chords. Watch the video on tremolo for this. Still work on the "Ka" as well, you'll want both tools in your belt.
Wonderful advice.
"Ka" sounds perfect while tongue blocking.
I have a similar problem working with Walk with Me in Lesson one. Whether I tongue block or pucker I seem to always feel out of breath on the draw notes. Holes 3 and 4 are the worst and somtimes I can't get a nice clear sound out of them and feel like it sounds strainy. If I focus on expelling all my air before doing a draw it's a little better, but sometimes not enough to finish the lick.
Don't know if it's related but I find myself tongue blocking only two holes to the left of the note I'm playing and if I try to block 3 holes my mouth isn't wide enough to get a clean note on the 4 I'm trying to reach. i also find I lose track of what hole I'm on more frequently with tongue blocking in general and blocking 3 holes instead of 2. I started as a pucker player so hopefully it'll just take some time.
Hello lkeeley. This sounds like a classic case of your nose being open on those draw notes. Take a look at the video titled "I run out of breath so easily!" on this page: http://www.bluesharmonica.com/faq
In regards to embouchure size. Keep focusing on having your lips over four holes, with practice you will get it, and the reward is a very efficient way of playing.
Best wishes on this.
Please give me an example.
Are you playing, for example, 2 2 2 2 2? If so, how are you separating them right now?
Are you using "Ka" or "Ta" or at your throat (vocal chords), where you open and close for the tremolo?