Re: Blow Bends

[wmharps@xxxxxxxxx]

I had a big struggle a few years ago with really effectively using the upper 
end of the harp.  I'm still not where I want to be, but I'm a lot closer.  What 
I did was to find a lick or two that crossed the "6-7 hole barrier" in one 
direction or the other -- either getting up there and getting back down again.  
Then I found that when I practiced or jammed, anytime I wasn't performing, I 
could throw in that lick and find myself in a place where I could improvise and 
develop new licks, and get back down again.  Over time I gradually found myself 
spending more and more time on the upper end of the harp, and feel much more 
comfortable there.  I use the 9 blow bend and 10 blow bend more than the 
straight notes, and use the upper end draw notes a lot.  The Bb practice harp I 
have in my pocket has nearly as much discoloration above hole 6 as below!  

- -tim


> Tim,
> 
> Hey, good point about crossing the "6-7 hole
> barrier"... 
> 
> I hadn't really thought about it from the solo-line
> perspective. I guess I go up there pretty regularly
> within the context of solos, especially in my 3rd
> position work, though not nececearilly going for
> blow bends. I use a lot of octaves up there,
> however.
> 
> Harpin' in Colorado,
> --Ken M.