Ask Instructor David Barrett

Hi David,

I was looking at the pdf and it contains 12 exercises.

I noticed that 2.1, 2.2 and 2.6 are focused in level 5 and 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 2.3, 2.4 and 2.7 in level 6.

When do you suggest to study the rest (1.1, 1.2, and 2.5)? My approach would be to focus on those at the end of level 6.

Thanks

Hi David

i was looking at your Movement Exercises -- Patterns -- working on ex. 2 as the others seem a bit difficut for the time being.  I was wondering whether these exercises come up in the LOAs, if so, at what levels and, if not, when would be a good time to work on them.  I didn't see them in LOA at a glance.

Thanks

Hello David. Why should I struggle learning to play minor position on a major tuned harp when I can run out and buy a minor tuned one? Is that 'cheating'? Thanks.

Hi David,

As part of my improvisation studies, and as you recommend, I am going through the study songs and making a note of my favourite licks etc.... My question is, instead of writing the music out by hand, is there a progamme that  can be downloaded or purchased.

Although its taking time, I'm finally understanding the improvisation process.

Regards,

Paul

Hi, David:

I am getting a real charge out of "Blues for Big Nate." It's great fun. There are so many draw notes in Chorus 1, though, and I'm struggling to find time to exhale. When I listen close, it seems Jerry lets the 123 chord trail off a bit early, and I am assuming that he uses that time to control his breath. Your playing of Chorus 1 seems to confirm my guess.

Is this right? Should I let the tremolo die out a little early and use that time?

Hi Dave

I'm currently going through 'temperature' tong block study 2. When do I use tonge switching? Should I learn how to switch whenever playing hole number 1. For example when working down holes 3draw, 2draw should I switch to do the 1draw. This seems a bit difficult and doesn't really make sense. However I want to learn good technique.

Cheers

Adam

Hi David in      Solo Study 1: Working with a Metronome  Eighth Notes: Straight, Swing and Triplet you mention on the " click  my  Met clicks 2 lights" you hit the  Blow and when it clicks again draw  2 lights  I'm practicing  slow 53 bpm  and set at 4 beats. some times I can get the 2 lights on the blow and vice versa only  ex 1.2 is what I'm starting on. I don't know if I should do  1 and 2 and 3 and 4   or 1 e and 2 e  I'm Lost 

Thanks  Harplayer

Hi David... Hope you had a good weekend. Concerning the Wa Wa's in the 4th chorus of Quiet World: I cannot hold the 2 draw on a G harp strong enough to create the effect. My air runs out quickly. I replaced the note with a 3 blow and it sounds good. Any thoughts? Also, regarding tongue flutters. Is there a rule that says how fast your tongue should flutter? Should it flutter to the tempo of the song or does it just come down to what sounds good? Thanks...Fran

I finally found a guitar player who will jam with me.  I want to learn to accompany him.  He is asking for tunes he can practice before we meet.  Do you have any suggestions?

Hi David,

Could you please clarify whether I am correct regarding the following : When on hole 5 of the harmonica, for the one chord I am using 6 blow (G) for the four chord I am using 5 blow (E) and for the five chord I am using 4 draw (D).

Thank you for your help,

Regards,

Paul