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Forums :: Ask Instructor David Barrett

tougue blocking

2 replies [Last post]
Tue, 11/11/2014 - 15:10
Jason3406
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Joined: 11/06/2014

Hi david, ive been in levels of achivement and havn't got really far. I am having trouble with the tongue blocking exercise.

Im trying to get single notes with your first exercise. wholes 1,2,3,4 and blocking 1,2, and 3. Sometimes i find that i might be getting single notes, but then when i draw it sounds like a mess. Also i feel like my tongue is getting pierced by the comb all the way to the left where the screw is. 

Do you have any tips for helping me out becides the instructions in the video. Or can you further explain your instructions.

Can i still go on and learn while i keep watching the new videos or should i stop right here intill i get tongue blocking down.

Thanks in advance

-Jason

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Tue, 11/11/2014 - 15:11
#1
Jason3406
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Joined: 11/06/2014
Excuse my grammer

Im bad at spelling! haha

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Tue, 11/11/2014 - 18:20
#2
David Barrett
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ExpertHead InstructorTeacher 10Level 10
Joined: 12/20/2009
Answer

Hello Jason. My guess is that you're pushing too hard on the face of the harmonica Put your lips over those four holes, holes 1 through 4. Slowly, and lightly, place the top of your tongue (not tip) over holes 1 2 and 3. Don't allow your tongue to go too far left, you're goal is to just go about one click of the clock to the left (11 o' clock). If you have to push to achieve the single note, use more of the top of the tongue, which is wider, to get the job done. Watching tongue block study 2.5 is also helpful, the visual of the Tongue Block Trainer is nice. You're always welcome to explore on the site and do other lessons why you're mastering a technique. Best wishes on this.

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  • Tongue Blocking Study 2 – This study is for the newer player or the player new to tongue blocking
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