Re: [Harp-L] Caring for a new Chromatic?

[Winslow Yerxa <winslowyerxa@xxxxxxxxx>]

Players vary in their beliefs about whether breaking in is a reality for 
harmonica. But it can't hurt to play it gently at first until you discover how 
the notes respond. This is especially true in the top four holes, where you may 
find the notes difficult to sound at first.

Chromatics are more sensitive to foreign matter, gummy substances, etc., than 
diatonics, because each reed has a think plastic strip called a valve mounted 
over the reedslot on the opposite side of the reedplate from the reed. You can 
cause these to buzz, rattle, stick, pop, and bray if you breathe sticky, oily or 
other particles into the harp, so always play with a clean mouth free of 
residues and debris. The slide can also get gummed up for the same reason.

The buzzing could be a valve. Warm up the harmonica befre playing as already 
suggested, and this may help. Also, the valve may settle down once you've played 
the harp for awhile.

Once you're done playing, hold the harp in one hand with the holes facing down 
and tap the holes on the palm of the other hand. Then Hold the slide button in 
and do the same for the second set of reeds. Prop the slider holes halfway open 
with a totthpich and let the insides air dry for awhile before putting the 
harmonica back in the box.

Good luck, and welcome to playing the chromatic.
 Winslow Yerxa
Author, Harmonica For Dummies ISBN 978-0-470-33729-5
Harmonica instructor, The Jazzschool for Music Study and Performance
Resident expert, bluesharmonica.com
Chromatic harmonica columnist, harmonicasessions.com




________________________________
From: Sean Murphy <taser8@xxxxxxxxx>
To: Harp-l Mailing List <harp-l@xxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Tue, December 14, 2010 8:31:07 AM
Subject: [Harp-L] Caring for a new Chromatic?

I just got a beautiful new Super Chromonica and I want to make sure I'm
breaking it in right - any suggestions for proper care and treatment?

Also, I've noticed that the 1-draw is buzzing slightly - is that common? Can
I expect it to work itself out, or is there anything I should do to check it
out or address the problem?

Thanks!
Sean