Upper Octave
Recently embarked on my 3rd position journey and am having difficulty getting my Marine Band deluxe to respond with any efficiency on holes 8-10 draw; considering the embouchure technique; I am tongue blocking; Is there reed adjustments, etc. that I may apply to raise the effectiveness of my harp? Thanks Tommy Hutch
Thanks Hank...Yea, I was playing on a G harp...Just an em-brochure problem...I am working it out....Following David's cues seems to pay off.....Thanks again for your reply...
Hey Tommy,
Without hearing or seeing you, it is difficult to assess whether we should point to the mechanic or the tool!
If David and Hanks advise does not yield the positive results you are looking for, then the next step would be to lower the gap (space between the free end of the reed and the reed plate should measure about .004"). Do this on both the blow reed and draw reeds of each hole you are having a challenge with.
Notes:
1. Practice on an old harmonica first, if you have never done gapping before
2. If this sounds intimidating, wait for the next installment of Harp Tech series and I will show you how to do it ;o)
Your Harpsmith,
Kinya
I have a 64 Chromonica 16 hole chromatic harmonica. The upper octave is very airy. There aren't windsavers on these holes. Is there a way to get a better sound? Thanks
Hey Tommy - important to note what key is the harp? I found D to F very tough, especially with bow bends but if you use lower keys to get used to the mouth feel (G - C) it helps - well, it helped me. The lower the key, the easier they seem to work.
Ooops - just saw David's response in the Ask David section. I maybe misread your question but will leave this jut in case