Re: Re: [Harp-L] Modes, was 3rd Position Tunes

["Chesper Nevins" <chespernevins@xxxxxxxxx>]

Tim Moyer wrote:

In my mind, this is *precisely* why positions do not strictly equal
> modes on the standard 10-hole harmonica tuning.  In the low octave,
> you can't play any complete scale without bends of some type.  So,
> if you have to bend even to play a major scale in the marked key,
> what's the difference in adding a few bends to play a ionian scale
> and adding a few different ones to play a dorian scale.
>

One of the things that make this more confusing is the fact that each octave
is so different.  But then again, octaves are different on any brass
instrument, some woodwinds, etc, so we can deal with that.

The A, B, C#, E, G# available on an A harp in the first octave does not
equal the major scale, it is true.  That these notes come from the major
scale, is, I guess, an assumption that is made (or *I* make) because the
second octave gives the full major scale, and the third octave most of that
same scale.

I think it's somewhat valid to theorize that A, B C#, E, G# is a subset of
the major scale because the major scale is then consistent up and down the
harp.  The player playing the whole range of the harp, with no bends at all,
in first position, would be placed firmly into a major scale area, thus
making the notes of the first octave (and third octave) sound in A major.

But I definitely see your point.  In the first octave, an A lydian scale is
every bit as easy to play as an A major scale, just bending to a D# instead
of a D on hole 2 draw.  But that's why I made the distinction of *no bends
at all* vs *ALL of the bends and OBs*, because once you bend one note, you
get outside the pure diatonic modes and the homogeneity of playing the whole
harp (across octaves) in one modal area is broken.  (That is, unless your
bends are limited to the notes of the A major scale exclusively.)

And I also see your point, if I understand you correctly, that A, B, C#, E,
G# is NOT a major scale, meaning that first position in the first octave,
and of course also the third, does NOT equal the major scale mode.  Meaning
that positions (with no bends played) NEVER equal modes because of the
missing notes.

I can live with that.  :)

Respectfully,

Jason

PS.  Tim, I love the fact that you added the "Artisan" harp to your offering
of customized harps (They ALL look incredible!).  What a great idea.  I hope
you have loads of success with it!