Re:Honer Tuning

[tony_m <morielli@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi.  Recently I noticed that my new Special 20 Marine Band and a 1868
Marine band were giving beat frequencies when I played octaves on the 1
and 4 blow.  I tested the tunings and found that in both, the 1 blow was
tuned to 440 and the 4 blow was tuned to 443.  I understand that people
tune to various frequencies around 440, but I'm surprised to find two
different frequencies used for "A" in the same instrument.  Since it
occurs in both harps, and since the tunings seem exact for each frequency,
I suspect the tuning is intentional.  Does anyone know if this is the way
Honer does things?  If so, why?  I understand the some harps are tuned
high to account for breath moisture (or saliva?) induced flattening.  Do
they reason that most people spend most of their time in the middle of the
harp, and so that's were the most moisture will build up?  I haven't
tested this directly.  Also, I haven't yet determined whether the other 
reeds are tuned to 440 or 443 (I hope to get to it tonight). 

Thanks for your input.  


  ---  tony 

p.s.  B.B. King is currently touring the US.  Does anyone know who his
harp player is?  I've heard Jerry Portnoy may tour with him for a while. 
Are there any New Englanders out there who know if JP is going to play at
at BBs september date at Greatwoods in MA? 

p.p.s.  The recent discussion re: amps and mics has been very very 
helpful.  Thanks to all.