Ask Instructor David Barrett

The quick reference say's to submit a recording of 1.2, 1.4, & 1.7 using a metronone however the webpage doesn't mention the submission. Is a submission required and how long should the recording be?

Thanks, Roy

Hi, David:

Hope your trip/surgery were both a success.

When I solo with a band (not as a bandleader), is it acceptable to give the band direction? For example, the signal to "play softer"? How about including breaks in a solo?

Hi

What kind of chromatic is Gary playing in this awesome tune. Looks and sounds like it might be a 16-hole chrom. Hohner? Wood comb? Model? Tuning?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PyaYWDeeeK4

Regards

Patrick

Last Sunday at my local blues jam, the song that was called was Aretha Franklin's Dr. Feelgood in E.  I had played on the same song the previous Sunday and played in 2nd position.  Since this song has a very minor feel, I wanted to switch to 3rd position.  However, I only had my Low D harmonica, which I had just received in the mail the previous day. I decided to go for it anyway, and it went over very well.   continue reading...

Going through LOA 1, Solo Harmonica study 1, Working with a metronome.

You discuss that a swing/shuffle rhythm ….the eight notes are …down beat – long continue reading...

Hi Dave,

I was wondering what the difference is between the Mic and Instrument Inputs on the old amps from the 50's.  Which one do we want to be plugged into?

-Taylor

Hi david,

I'm trying to get to play those fast triplets but I can speed them up, I've been practising for a month on that. Expecialli the first triplet  3"" 3 4, any suggestion ?

I'm new to harp.  I have been working on bending study 1 for at least 2 months.  I can bend 1, 2 (1/2 and whole), 5 (to extent you can), and 6.  But 3 and 4 (which I have read are the "easiest to bend") allude me. I can only get them to start down a little - but less than a 1/2 step.  Is this a common problem?  Any ideas why?  Any suggestions would be appreciated as I don't seem to be getting any closer to making the bends.  Thanks.

Hi, David:

I'm having some struggles with Half-Steppin, not with the bends, but with the speed run in 4th bar of the 5th chorus. Those last four notes are really presenting a problem. I know that I can eventually get it, because I've overcome troubles with speed before, but it might take a few weeks. continue reading...

Hi David

im wondering at what stage do you suggest you send un your LOA submission?

I've been playing 'Walk with me' for about 6 weeks now and have moved on to LOA2 Temparature and the start of 'Freling for the blues' first section so I can work on the tongue block bending and slaps. 

I'm wanting to make sure I have the 'Walk with me' at the right level of proficiency before I submit it to you. 

I don't know if you can explain this easily, but how many mistakes etc do you accept for it to pass the grade?

Many Thanks

Richard