Ask Instructor David Barrett

Morning David,

Just wondered if you, or the professional players you know have ever worn ear monitors to enable you to hear yourself playing whilst on stage?

Regards

Greg 

I know you say we need an A harp but I was given a C Hohner Special 20 as a gift. Will this in any way put a damper on my lessons? 

I'm a new student and have never played any kind of instrument. Harmonica has always been my favorite. I'm a fan of little Walter and listen to him all the time. My question is what is the best way to hold a harp? 

David, I just wanted to thank you for doing the reviews on the small amps. I have really enjoyed learning about these models and hearing your opinion. Based on Small Amp Review Checklist which lists quite a few amps - will you be doing a review of all of the models listed?  Thanks again.

Hi David,

In the Rollin' Rhumba sheet music 2nd chorus, measure 2 starts with an eighth rest, but I cant' hear you playing it in the recorded mp3. It seems you play it shorter or not at all, and move it after the first beat. Am I right? Should I play it exactly as in the sheet?

Thanks,

Marek

I bought this amp about a year ago and I was waiting to see the review.  I own a Kalamazoo and the harp train.  I have Been playing for 2years.  For me personally I don’t Like the way the Harp train sounds, but was unable identify what I dIdnt like. My description is that it gave a hollow sound.  At my current ability level I always choose to play my Kalamazoo.  Just thought I would share my thoughts.  

Repertoire / Study songs

David. From the study song up to the end of level 3 and including Strut and Gary's blues should I be able to play them from memory or from the PDF when I submit them to you. Also which ones or all should I  go over once a week ?  I see that songs like I want you with me and others have more than one version so those probably should be played off of the PDF's. continue reading...

Hi David

I am doing level 1 at the moment - have been doing so for about 6 weeks?!

I notice that for me, the 2 hole is very difficault to get a pure sound - especialy 2 draw. I don't seem to be able to close lips around harmonica to seal it - as it is too close to edge. Is this common? Can you point me to any tips please?

Thanks in advance :)

I feel like I just about have the solo harmonica requirements dialed in.  I plan to start recording next week.  That tends to take awhile as I seem to forget my name the second I hit record - so it takes a few (50+) takes to get it right.  Of course there is the rhythm part which I struggle with as well.  But I practice everyday as you suggested.  Triplets will be the death of me.

Now on to the bending.  I can bend every note.

4 - no problem, 5 - no problem continue reading...

Hi,

When I want to repeat the same note in tongue blocking, I lock the air somewhere in my throat and release it.

I tried to do Ta-Ta-Ta or Ta-Ka-Ta-Ka but this doesn't fit well with tongue blocking.

What do you suggest for articulating on the same note in tongue blocking ?

Thanks

Bod