[Harp-L] SPAH Gold Medal Custom Harmonica Competition

["tony" <tony@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Dear all,

            This list often features debate about "the best" custom
harmonicas, an argument which is never settled by words. I would like to
propose a competition which formalises the custom harmonica debate outcome.
Wine competitions, featuring eminent judges and blind tastings, are common.
A similar event for custom harmonicas, perhaps run at SPAH, would generate
much interest. Rules could be as follows:

 

1)       Each maker submits 2 diatonic C harmonicas

2)       A maximum of 10 entries (i.e. makers) are allowed.

3)       Two prominent players are selected as judges.

4)       Each player is blindfolded, then provided with the instruments.
Their task is to choose the best and the second best instrument. An
assistant keeps track of which instruments are being played

5)       The first and second choices are awarded the "SPAH Custom Harmonica
Gold Medal" and "Silver Medal" respectively.

6)       In the event that different harmonicas are chosen for 1st and 2nd
placse by the respective judges, then joint gold and silver medals are
awarded.

 

The first and second place winners will be auctioned during the SPAH award
ceremony. Given potential interest in owning the winning instruments, the
successful bids could amount to a hefty prize for the first and second place
makers. Similarly, the other makers could auction their instruments, perhaps
by having boxes available during the convention, where potential buyers
could place their bids. This would provide an opportunity for all makers to
get a decent price for their instruments. For example, even for non winning
entries, bidders may be prepared to pay well above the list price for a pair
of instruments which are immediately available.

 

What do you all think?

 

Tony Eyers

Australia

www.harmonicatunes.com <http://www.harmonicatunes.com/>