RE: [Harp-L] On sticking chromatic slides

["Steve Shaw" <moorcot@xxxxxxx>]

Snaruhn@xxxxxxx wrote:

> Warming up harps before playing is as questionable as to
> knock them out. I mentioned already in a former post that
> the condensation can only be prevented when warming the
> harp up to body temperature. This is firstly impossible
> and secondly, the inhaled atmospheric air of the 50% draws
> thwarts the warming immediately.

I found the whole of your post very interesting and useful, but I would 
politely take issue with the bit about warming the harp being questionable.  
I would contend that most chromatic players (and I myself use chromatics 
only occasionally, but nonetheless...) would tell you that warming the harp 
is well-nigh indispensable to get the valves all working as they should.   
Admittedly, some harps are better than others in this respect, but all the 
stock Hohner 260s and 270s I've had, as well as my Hering 1248, and even my 
two XB40s, respond properly only when they have at the very least had the 
chance to warm up to "warm room temp."   The explanation apropos 
condensation, etc., may well be questionable, but when I pick up one of my 
chromatics in the pub session I know that it just won't be perfect unless 
it's warm.  Into the pants pocket it goes, if I've had the foresight to 
predict that I'll soon need it. 'Tis the bottom line, I can't explain it but 
I know it's needed.  I would point out that the inhaled air, whilst cooler 
than body temp., has the advantage of being nowhere near as moisture-laden 
as the warmer exhaled air, and is itself somewhat warmed up by the fact that 
it passes through your hands and over the parts of the warmed-up harp.

Steve


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