Ask Instructor David Barrett

Dave - It appears that Music Theory in LOA #1 is exactly the same as it is in #2. Am I missing something here?

Hi David - impressed as all get out with the intro videos and the potential of BlueDadi. Big time thanks to John Shirley. I'm aware of the 'proviso's' that accomapny a free app. I thought though he would like to know that this message came up when I tried to fire up the app on my Mac - OS El Capitan 10.11.4:

“Blue Dadi v1_1d” is damaged and can’t be opened. You should move it to the Trash. continue reading...

Helo David.

Some of my friends(beginners) ask me if I can write to you and ask if slippery hands is common problem with beginners?

I remember that I have had some problems when I started with slippery hands (even now sometimes when i am nervous) ....when playing in front of people.... than is a little bit difficult to hold harmonica in a proper way...

Thanks For your Answer :)

M.

David, 

I've recently come across a method of tongue blocking/curling.  I'm sure you're familiar with it.  I saw it on a video of Norton Buffalo's.  I find this method extremely easy for me as I've got a fairly dextrous tongue.  The tone of the instrument seems to have more clarity and bending notes is much easier for me.  I was wondering if you were indeed familiar with this method and how you felt about it.  I will also post this question in the general forum to see what everyone thinks about this method.  Thanks in advance!! continue reading...

David, 

I feel I'm getting fairly close to somewhat okay at most of the level one material.  My question is simple, how well does my content need to be to reach level one proficiency?  In other words, should the material be perfect?  I haven't viewed or heard other submissions, so I have no basis for comparison.  Any advice would be most helpful.  

-Ralph Sellite

David, 

I feel I'm getting fairly close to somewhat okay at most of the level one material.  My question is simple, how well does my content need to be to reach level one proficiency?  In other words, should the material be perfect?  I haven't viewed or heard other submissions, so I have no basis for comparison.  Any advice would be most helpful.  

-Ralph Sellite

David --

So life has finally cleared a bit for me to return to practicing harmonica more diligently. So that I can drive hands-free, I actually bought a harmonica holder. Hopefully, it will help me to stay on track.

My question for you as to do with shading the 3 draw on the D harmonica. While I've got the 1, 2, 4, and 6 draws down, I can't seem to control the bend of the 3. I can either do a unbent draw and hit C# or I go all the way to A# when bending. Any tricks you might have to help me hit C and B?

Thanks!

Erik continue reading...

Hi David,

Could you recommend a George Harmonica Smith Compilation or key recordings to seek out?

youve  mentioned both "Juicy Harmonica" and "Blues in the Dark" in a couple contexts.  But I am not able to find either of these in iTunes by George.  I do see a few covers of Blues in the Dark and have your playing of Juicy Harmonica.

is there a recommended album? 

Best,

Andrew

Hi David,

The harmonica has grown to take over a larger and larger part of my musical world in the last two years. Of course I see it more and share it more. I was talkling with some friends and they asked: "Do you think there is a resurgence of popularity going on with the harmonica?"  continue reading...

Hi David,

I just learned about the School of the Blues series in Improvising 10.

I play and teach multiple instruments including guitar and would like to get my hands on an e book copy of the Guitar method, but it seems as if only level 2 is available.

Is there anywhere you know I could score a copy?

They are easily available used, but I use my iPad to cut down on carrying texts to the music store.

Thanks,

Steve