[Harp-L] Re: Hohner thunderbird

[Warren Bee <wbharptime2@xxxxxxxxx>]

As a few are saying already we all need to wake up and accept the
facts. We are a wonderful niche, we harpists, but we will not make the
"main stream". Think about the talent that has shown the world how
wonderful our instrument is. It just is what it is. Personally I would
prefer our situation than being a guitar player. Less is more in many
ways, at least to me. Companies like Hohner haven't lasted this long
in business making unprofitable decisions. If they did you wouldn't be
able to find a C harp at some point! Companies like Seydel & Suzuki
have created a nice new business model for us. Much more "boutique" in
nature. Specializing in serving the more advanced player and offering
options that indeed are wonderful but they must be paid for. Odd keys
and tunings deserve to cost more so these manufacturers can afford to
continue. Starting out as more Internet based sales models as compared
to Hohners brick and mortar history gives them a little more
flexibility.

Bottom line, harp-l is a blessing and very unique. We should all be
seeing the reality of the picture in front of us. Pocketful of Soul
got minimal interest in overall numbers. When I was involved with SPAH
there was minimal real interest by the masses of harp players.
Regional festivals are gone or struggling. We more serious harpers
have many more options than in the past but it is our educating
ourselves about all things harmonica that will get us what we
individually want. All businesses have numbers that cannot be avoided
or they fall the wayside. The ones that take chances need us to
patronize them. The more we support them the more they can innovate.

One more time. Harp-l is a major blessing to us all. Pretty much you
can get anything you want harmonica wise through here. It may cost
more but our customizing friends will surely hook you up with your
hearts desire but it must be paid for properly for their work to
continue into the future.

By the way, my Seydel F# 1847 Classic is dreamy and a very important
piece in my box of tricks. I dread to be in a situation where I don't
have the proper tool for the job.

W,B