Ask Instructor David Barrett

Hello David.  I may be in need of updating my OS for the MacBook Pro (currently using OS High Sierra 10.13.6).  I heard that Harp Ninja maynot be compatible with the latest version.  Can you recommend a comparable program compatible with the Mac?  I use Harp Ninja nearly every time I practice and would truly miss it.  Thanks

Hello David,

I found a Daily Exercises A and B on the Sharon Barrett page; good exercises. Is there an audio file that was made to accompany these exercises?

Hank

Hi David, hope you are doing well! continue reading...

Mr. Barrett,

I am new to this instrument, and any other for that matter. I don't know anything about the instrument. Your lessons are extremely detailed and with that very complicated. I see multiple start points, many new words and visuals that really dont show me what to do. I am excited to play but I don't know anything about starting. It was recommended that I get a Horner special 20, "c" harmonica to staert learning on. Your lessons require a "a" harmonica. Whats the difference, if any? 

Please advise in simple language as best as possible.  continue reading...

Hi David, I purchased a Low F Thunderbird without realising the series was already 'low'. I in tended to use it with Skeet a Little Taste. Do you think I could still use it ok or is the low draw reeds going to frustrate me? I can 'over' bend the 2 draw on a G harp further than required. How can I use  Ninja to see how far I'm bending the TBird Low F?

Thanks John Mac

Hi David

I note that you almost always use the hole 3 blow rather than the 2 draw in our study material. Is there a reason for this? I have heard other instructors say that you should always use the 2 draw as it gives a more "bluesy" sound.

Thanks'Eric

Hello David.

Wow, there is a ton of material in Level 4; gonna take the rest of this year to process it all.

My query is in regard to playing pulls on some notes; not sure whether to draw or blow the pulls after some notes.

For example, in Solo 2 Section 2 Bass Lines, Ex 2.1, meas 1-4, there is a draw pull after 5+,

while in meas 1-4 of Ex 2.2, there is a blow pull after 5+; sounds good in both cases.

Then in meas 6, there is a draw pull following 7+. To my ear a blow pull sounds much better. continue reading...

bonjour David je voudrais avoir ton avis j'ai acheter un fender ampli blues delux ?? et aussi quel reglage me donnerais tu a f aire dessus merci ??!! 

Im on the Level 3 Accompniment study playing each of the 6 holes

along with a jam track, and I think I got it down right on holes

1 Thru 4, but real confused about holes 5 and 6.

any Suggestions?

Hello instructor Barrett! I just joined today! i Just got my classic marine band in a key of C, as that is what everyone told me to get as my first harmonica. When i opened it, i saw the free trial code for this site, and decided to check it out, but when i started on your first lesson, you said i had to have one in the key of A. My understanding was that key is the note, or pitch. I just wondered if i have to have one in the key of A, or if i can use mine in the key of C. Thank you!