[Harp-L] Why is C not named A?

[Michael Rubin <rubinmichael@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Is Winslow still on the list?  This question is for everyone, but somehow I am guessing he knows the answer.I have a student who claims that until he understands the purpose for history having named the notes the names they have, he cannot really learn.  He says it is just parroting.  
   
  So, why are the notes named as they are?  It seems that C should be named A.  Then a major scale would be played when starting on A and not hitting the white notes.  I transposed all my scales into this new system and it works fine.  I could see no problems with it.  
  My initial thought was that the Aeolian scale or natural minor scale was the scale that was the most standard during the time when the notes were named.  Anyway, what's the history?
  I know this seems to have no harp content.  Pretty bad for my first day back on list.  I maintain that all theory questions are inherently harp content because knowing theory will inform your playing.  
  Also, please consider I am a harp teacher.  Teachers, what do you do with students who make statements such as these?  
  Michael Rubin
  Michaelrubinharmonica.com