Re: [Harp-L] Re: Steve Baker and Brendan Power in the house (and at SPAH) -

[Rupert Oysler <orupert@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hey Brendan and list,

Absolutely! I can remember when I started playing in the 1950's there 
was basically one model of diatonic available to me (hohner marine 
band), and harp repair/modification existed in only in the tiniest 
micro-niches of players....

Now we not only have a wealth of instruments from various manufacturers, 
but also many interchangeable parts, loads of available knowledge to 
make even more improvements, and lots of individual customizers. It is 
an incredibly different climate for harmonica players, with so many 
possibilities and choices.

I think it is important for each of us to take an open look at the 
situation, and acknowledge that every manufacturer is striving to make 
the best instruments they can. Often it is easy to make assumptions, and 
assert all kinds of things....But  I think everyone who gets close 
enough to all the existing manufacturers can see that each one is 
investing their care, attention, and abilities to produce the best that 
they can.

Changes may come about from many processes: talking to players (and I 
think there is more of that going on than ever!), or engineers, or 
accountants (...... we have to stay in business for people to be able to 
complain! :>) ),  from observing  market choices , etc. etc. But the 
"bottom line" is that each manufacturer makes the changes for a 
perceived positive outcome. And all this is a great benefit to ALL players.

....and so is SPAH, where I look forward to seeing everyone!

Rupert Oysler
www.seydelusa.com

Brendan Power wrote:
> snip>--------
>  
> I'm sure the same could be said of Steve, Rupert, Madcat and the others
> who work for individual companies: they aim to promote their company's
> harps but, like me, as harp players who love the instrument, they can
> appreciate the improving quality and innovative ideas of rival
> companies. Why not give praise where praise is due?
>   
snip>------------------------------