[Harp-L] Hole 2 draw on a C harp

[Michael Rubin <rubinmichael@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Producing 2 draw unbent G on a C harp is tough for almost all of my students and getting a consistently intentional G normally takes around 3 to 6 months of playing time.  I call it the dying cow syndrome.
  What is happening is that the student's beginner embouchure "confuses" the harp and the harp "thinks" the student wants a bent note to be produced.
   
  I believe it has something to do with the range of the note G.  I notice 3 draw is much easier for most students (although there are a few who struggle with it too) even though there are 4 note options for the beginner's embouchure to "confuse" the harp.  I have also noticed the same students do not struggle with 2 draw on an F harp, yet they struggle with 1 draw on an F.   
   
  I will explain this to the student.  I will joke with the dying cow line and "it's not the harp, it's YOU".  Understanding that this is a standard part of learning harp is comforting.  
   
  I also am very insistent that the student play 2 draw as opposed to 3 blow at every opportunity.  
   
  Here are my helpful hints to students:
  1. Breathe in, don't suck in.
  2. Start practicing by playing 1 blow, 2 blow THEN 2 draw.  
  3. Keep the pucker, but place your lips in the position as if you were saying "E".
  4.  Widen the jaw gap between your teeth.
  5.  Use 3 blow for comparison.
   
  Good luck!
  Michael Rubin
  michaelrubinharmonica.com