[Harp-L] diatonic vs chromatic - what can be done?

[IcemanLE@xxxxxxx]

Harmonica Conventions can take a proactive attitude towards the ever-widening 
gap as long as the powers that be acknowledge the existence and seriousness 
of this problem.

It may prove difficult to change attitudes towards the music played by either 
"camp." However, much can be done at the conventions to ease the tension and 
lead towards more open attitudes.

Example: For over 25 years, SPAH was about Chromatic/Bass/Chord and the older 
styles. This was the normal evolution of the group and convention. When 
Madcat was brought to a SPAH convention (I believe it was around 1990), it was a 
BIG (and controversial) step towards opening the door for diatonic. Some older 
members hated it, some liked it, and many were curious as to where it might 
lead.

Well, once the door opened, an influx of diatonics quickly flowed in.

>From 1994 - 2000, SPAH recognized the delicacy of the balance and worked 
consciously to evolve the organization with the least amount of resistance or 
attitude. What worked at the time was the understanding that it was the older 
original and loyal members who created SPAH and therefore should be the first 
consideration with any changes. In other words, bring in some new ideas, but make 
sure that attention is paid to the old members and their wants/desires, or 
bring in some new ideas in such as way as to interest the old members. This way, 
they wouldn't feel that the diatonics were taking over.

A few of the successful programs:

1, Since the older members loved playing all types of music in the hallways 
and lobby, musicians were hired to stroll around, hang out, join in and/or 
start jams. This included an accordion player, acoustic guitar/standup bass, and 
violin - all experienced in all types of music, including old swing tunes and 
jazz. It opened up the jam experience to where a lot of diatonic players joined 
in the fun as well as paying close attention to the needs and wants of the 
older loyal members.

2. Introduction of blues diatonic to the older loyal members in the form of 
"Sunny Girl", who, at that time, was 7 years old. What better way to open the 
hearts/minds of the older chromatic members than a cute little girl with major 
talent, showing all what can be done on a diatonic? She was present every year 
from 95 - 2000, many times on the main stage. Most older members always 
attended the shows where Sunny Girl performed, bringing their children and 
grandchildren as well. It clicked - she was growing up in front  of and getting to 
personally know this audience. The older members loved seeing that the children 
will carry on the tradition. At the Thur Night Blues Show, Sunny Girl on the 
bill would always bring in a great number of the older players and their 
families.

3. Keeping a tight reign on volume for the diatonic blues show - nothing 
empties a roomful of the older generation faster than TOO LOUD.

4. A Sat Night Swing Dance was one of the most requested events by the older 
loyal members. In 2000, it was added to the convention and was a great hit for 
the older members. Having sit-ins with the swing band also gave the chromatic 
players who don't improvise - playing only melodies - a great outlet to 
perform. It gave them the structure that the jazz and blues jams couldn't offer.

5. Having Blackie Shackner attend/perform as often as possible. Blackie not 
only lit up the faces of all the older loyal members, but his talent attracted 
a lot of diatonic interest. Blackie was interested in bringing both factions 
closer together and his positive energy on site helped accomplish this.

The rapid influx of diatonic at the convention was always seen as a 
blessing/challenge, but most consideration was given towards the older members. A 
change was a-comin', for sure, but it was regulated, in a way, so that nothing 
would be out of balance during the transition, if possible.

I believe that this is the philosophy of Preserving and Advancing and it 
breaks my heart to see or hear about the separation of the camps. It is true that 
the diatonics are much more tolerant and respectful towards the older 
Chromatic/Bass/Chord than vice versa, but one has to understand that the older 
generation needs respect in a different way before they may open up to the new 
changes/music. They need a little more attention and effort should be made to make 
them comfortable. After all, the diatonics have open arms and youth on their 
side.


The Editorialman