[Harp-L] An alternative view on the future of the harmonica

[Serguei Volkov <svolkov@xxxxxxxxx>]

The discussions surrounding the future of the harmonica,
its popularity and lack thereof have one flaw: they
are confined mostly to blues and jazz, two essentially
"unpopular" genres.

In order to gain widespread popularity and recognition,
the harmonica must tap into popular music. And popular
music is, essentially, 90% major pentatonic.

The problem with the Richter diatonic is that it does
not allow to easily rock out on a clear, full major
scale across more than 1 octave. Addressing that issue
is, I believe, the key to unlocking the full potential
of the diatonic harmonica as a popular instrument.

Regards,

Sergei Volkov 
~
http://www.myspace.com/outlawbe