Ask Instructor David Barrett

I have been a member of bluesharmonica.com for close to 2 years now. Love the things you put out. But I have to say the biggest problem I had with the website was there are so many material available I didn’t know where to start. The new LOA system is simply brilliant. Thank you for making it available. I also have a few questions regarding how to make practice time effective. Could you comment on my current practice schedule list below? I feel like I am spending too much time on long notes and scales but then again I think they REALLY help. continue reading...

Hi David,

I've been reviewing the first few levels within the LoA system. I see Bending Study 2 in Level 3, but I don't see Bending Study 1 prior to that. I assume it is in Level 1 or Level 2, but I've looked and don't see it anywhere. How is Bending Study 1 incorporated into the LoA system?

Thanks,

Greg

David do you know where to buy George Smith's version of Juicy Harmonica? I have your version and Piazza's version (both great); now I want to hear the original.

Steve

Dave what lesson teaches thee flutter

Hi David,

I got invited to a bluegrass jam. Any survival tips?

Taylor

Hello David,

I've started on Solo Harmonica 3 and in Section 1 (Chording), Ex. 1.1, I have a question on the (5)/4 combo note. Are you lip puckering or tongue-blocking it? Are you lip pursing or tongue-blocking the 5-draw to begin that chord? Let me know.

Thanks!

Dutch

Good morning, David:

As I progress through the site, I would like to show my friends and family my progress by recording videos of myself playing your songs and posting them online. Would this be acceptable to you? I can put your name or the name of the school on the video, if you would like. I ask because I don't want to give away any of the instructional materials that you've worked so hard to create.

Thanks for your consideration.

Sorry about all the questions, I've been saving em up through the week. What holes should I avoid in minor on the chromatic in 3rd position? Also, what are the most common usages of holes with the button in. I feel like I'm starting to get an intuitive sense of movement on the chromatic but I'd like to use the button a little more. It seems like every time I hit the button it's hit or miss whether it fits.

I just want to be prepared when you roll out the 16 hole chromatic LOA. haha. ;)

-Taylor

Hi David,

I love that 6(7) draw combo in 3rd position. Is it alright to do that on the V in 2 position? I know the 6 is kosher but I haven't heard the (7) in with it in 2nd.

-Taylor

Hi,
I'm currently going through Walk with Me 1st lesson and I'm unclear about using the tongue with a shake? I find it much more comfortable to keep the tongue off the harp or is there a technique that I'm missing using the tongue while playing a shake?