Ask Instructor David Barrett

Dave I am playing loa 7 and playing roots and shuffle but still having problems improvising ?? What do you suggest ? going back and playing all the improvs lessons from the beginning ? Thanks

I'm having a lot of trouble on my 2 draw trying to keep my tongue from humping up in the back and also keeping my nose closed. Do you have any tips for this or does it just take practice?

Thanks

In the Strut, 4th chorus, first IV chord measure, there are G notes played as 2 draw, and a 1-2 draw pull. Being on a IV chord, I wonder why not play blows there, and the pull as 1-2-3 blow? The repeated pattern, 2 bars later, being on the I chord, would use draws.

I am still playing 30% slower and it seems to make sense, and is also easier (3" then +3, easier than 3" then 2). continue reading...

Hi David, i downloaded the HarpNinja Diatonic app on my iphone. In settings I'm wondering what the TunerMode is and what it does and also, what does it mean when the green arc goes right, just past the note you're playing? Sharp or flat? I seem to be consistent with most of the holes no matter how I try to alter my approach. Thanks

Hi David,

On the 6th chorus of 'The Split', on the 10th measure, I'm finding the pull off a bit tricky. It sounds, on the mp3, that you tongue slap the 4+, do the pull off and then go immediately to the dipped 3 draw without doing the 2nd 4+ slap. When I do the 2nd 4+ slap it doesn't seem to flow like when you do it. 

Many thanks

Saul

Hey David,

I bought a C harmonica originally and have been working through the C harmonica intro lessons. I want to get an A harmonica as I plan to continue through the lessons where I will need one and wanted to see what you would recomend I get?

thanks!

Hi Dave, continue reading...

Hello David, I will start with you.

I want to repace the 5 draw reed on my marine band A harp. Do you know of a source for replaement reeds; it doesn't seem to be common knowledge.

I will, of course, contact the Harpsmith and the general forum.

Hank H

Dave I have a Hohner 10 hole chromatic harmonica. The 5 hole sounds real fluttery in and out ?? can I clean this thing ?? I see you have lessons but no 10 hole ? Do I have a freak ?? Im worried about pulling it apart ? May not be able to put it back ? If I purchase a new one do you have any suggestions . I am finishing LOA 7 and thought I would play with the chromatic ? Should I just start LOA 8 and keep moving on ? Or try to repair this chromatic ? Someone gave it to me so I could open it up and try to fix it ?? Relly enjoy the lessons .Thanks 

Hi David,

Is there any practical benefit to memorising the note names whilst I go through the scales, or am I better off focussing on developing fluidity through muscle memory?

I have been saying the note names in my head as I practice, but there's no point if it's unnessesary? 

Many thanks

Saul