Re: [Harp-L] Blues playing in the key of F

[william.lifford@xxxxxxxxx]

With regard to the choice between a low F or a regular F harmonica, you should think a lot about your playing style and ability.

The low F will sound great for both first and second position blues, but because the notes are an octave lower, it takes a little more "wind" to play some of the lower hole draw bends really well.   If you can play "crisply", with good clear sound and definition to your notes, it'll sound awesome... But a new player or one who plays timidly, nervously or hesitantly will find the low F harp tough to play well.

The high F harp also is a lot of fun, but can sound shrill when played poorly.  In first position, I think a high-pitched harp has a bouncy, airy, light sound, whereas in second position you can really rip into it and make the harp scream for blues and rock stuff.

Obviously the answer is to buy both!

Bill
Long Island, NY
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T