[Harp-L] Re: Trills on Harp

["Jonathan Metts" <jonathan@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Winslow said:

" "Trill" refers exclusively to the alternation of two neighboring
notes in the scale, never to notes any farther apart than that.

"The only actual trill on the diatonic harmonica is between Draw 6 and
Draw 7 (A and B on a C-harp). Interesting that harmonica players
verrrry rarely use this - probably because, as a true trill, it is
more dissonant than they want."

Winslow definitely knows more about theory than I do, but something about 
this statement bugs me.  If a trill is alternating between two adjacent 
scale notes, there should be tons of trills available on the diatonic, not 
just the one he mentions.  What about Bend 4 - Draw 4, or Blow 5 - Draw 5? 
Depends on what scale you're using, but my point is that you could alternate 
between many sets of notes very quickly, if your technique is well honed.  I 
use very quick, repetitive bends sometimes in my playing, and it can sound 
very cool if I practice my intonation.  As for fast blow/draw patterns, even 
Dylan uses those.  Of course, bending/unbending or blowing/drawing is not a 
headshake at all, but couldn't it still be a trill, according to the 
historical definition Winslow has given?

Jonathan Metts