Re: Fwd: [Harp-L] Some questions for chromatic players..(2)

[Winslow Yerxa <winslowyerxa@xxxxxxxxx>]

I see no overwhelming advantage to switch to pucker as a primary embouchure on chromatic. I've done both, and I find that while I can get crisper staccato with pucker, that's about the only bonus. For me tongue blocking is just as loud, flexible, etc., and it can help a lot with wide leaps if you use corner switching. However, everyone gets their own results. Try different things and find what works for you.

Tight diaphragm is not something I woudl cultivate. I find no difference in diaphragm between chromatic and diatonic. The main thing is good breath support and resonance. If you're getting different results, look to the foundations of your technique. Swithcing to a different type of harmonica may be exposing some unexamined areas in your breath support and resonance.

Vibrato: It's pure myth that only shallow bends are possible on chromatic. By adjusting your bending techinque, you can actually bend notes FARTHER on a chromatic than on a diatonic - sometimes four semitones, as Jerry Murad did on the Harmonicats' recording of Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom White. No trick harps, just good bending technique. Listen to Larry Adler for examples of really heavy vibrato on chromatic - it's entirely within the realm of normal possiblities (Larry was a great player but not superhuman).

I haven't run across any books for chromatic that are truly comprehensive. What I've seen is either very basic or specific to blues - I'll check out the Pete Gelling book.

I have an ongoing series of articles at HarmonicaSessions.com on chromatic. The earlier articles, starting in the February, 2005 issue, address beginning chromatic for diatonic players. Later I get into some tongue-blocking stidues that work their way up to advanced tongue switching. Currently I'm addressing blues in different keys in chromatic.

Winslow

Winslow Yerxa

Author, Harmonica For Dummies ISBN 978-0-470-33729-5