Ask Instructor David Barrett

Hi David,

So I'd like to record some of my song submissions using my bassman. Unfortunately, when I do this with the mic on my phone, it over distorts the phone speakers and the audio comes out sounding horrible, even with the volume on my bassman turned way down. Can you recommend a good personal audio recorder for under $100 that may work better than my phone mic?

-Taylor

Hi David,

I have been looking into buying a Low F harmonica for the Sonny Boy Williamson II artist study and I was thinking of purchasing a Hohner Thunderbird Low F. I am just wondering is this low F lower than the key you are using or is it the same? I know there is a low-low F as well, but I am referring to the one higher than that. I love the artist study song and can't wait to get stuck into it.

Also do you happen to have any recommendation for good online sellers of Hohner Thunderbird harmonicas that will ship to China? I can't find a local retailer here in Beijing.

Thanks continue reading...

WOW! Not so much a question but a, Thank You!! So much, what a great interview. You 2 are by far the greatest harmonica teachers out there, a few others run a close 2nd , but in complete learning you guys are tops and then to get to hear you talk about the harp in was a early Christmas Gift. continue reading...

This is not a question. Just wanted to comment on the new look front page of the site. VERY COOOL !

G'day David, i am looking for this book but so far it seems to be available only via harmonicamasterclass.com, and i can't order from Australia. Any idea how far off wider availability is likely to be?
Thanks and regards,
Dave

How accurate should I aim to make my 3' bends? It seems with the 1, 2, & 4, people just bend those suckers down without worrying to much about being exactly on the mark with 0 cents. What about the 3'? Not trying to be to technical but how many + or - cents should I aim for on my tuner?

-Taylor

David, continue reading...

David, I got my first harp in the spring of 2008. I want to submit my first set of harmonica playing recordings for you to critique. I know I owe you a fee for this. If you want to take it out of my PayPal account that is fine with me. If I should do something different to pay you just let me know. I can attach a MP3 file which is about 6 1/2 minutes long with a C Special 20 marine band. I go through bends, head shake, Tremelo, Vibrato, Pulls, slaps, slow, fast, bends into bends, etc. If I should submit something different just ask. continue reading...

David,

In your video for the 7th Chorus you mention that at the end of the IV it may not have been the way that Gary Smith would have intended to finish. What did you mean by that? How do you think he would have intended to finish the IV?

-Taylor

Hi David, continue reading...