Re: [Harp-L] U blocking



Im sure people will argue this, but I think u blocking is a pretty good way to go if you cant tongue block. The tongue is on the harp, making it easier for octaves and side to side work. I have found that many players that are self taught sometimes naturally go this way because they have trouble getting single notes. The tone is good because that rounded tongue creates a sound channel. I learned this from a local atlanta player that was actually mentored somewhat by Little Walter. He said that walter showed him the u block method and now he does a combo of tongue to side tongue block and u block on the lower notes. So, yes apparently Walter was a u blocker or at least quasi u block/tongue block player according to this. He is quoted in the Little Walter book talking about this. It may explain his confounding tone and sounds. I went to a seminar once with Mark Hummel and I remember him saying that he didnt think Walter tongue blocked! Who knows. Perhaps the u block is the explanation. Of course Im not an expert and I know many well known players would disagree. Im just sharing what I have learned over the years. Getting Walter's sound is confounding for most!


On 8/14/2012 2:55 PM, Tony Stephens wrote:
Because no one talks about u block and you can not find info at YouTube on this it was driving me crazy. Was I learning all wrong? Then I ran up on Robert Hale. He helped me come to terms with u blocking. Mickey Raphael said in an email use what works for you. I still want to pucker and TB, but u block is fine too. This may help another person out there, I hope so anyway.
       Thanks

Sent from my iPhone





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