Re: [Harp-L] Soaking harps

["Steve Shaw" <moorcot@xxxxxxx>]

> > Why does a harp play more responsively for a few minutes after you run it
> > under the tap?
> > I mainly use non-wood combs, so I'm really only interested in what effect
> > soaking has on the reeds.

> > Ken

> Because you've washed the gunk (AKA dried saliva) out of it.

> Dave Payne Sr.

Dave is correct.  For many years I've washed my plastic-bodied non-valved 
harps under a lively stream of tepid water thoroughly after every session 
and shaken/tapped out the excess.  I then leave them out to dry all night 
before putting them away.  They sound brighter and are more responsive as a 
result.  No gunk accumulates in the holes (and I drink copious beer whilst 
playing - it's free).  I can't think of any way in which this treatment 
would reduce the longevity of harps.  You hear a lot of advice warning that 
you shouldn't do this but I feel that this falls into the category of 
handed-down received wisdom.   Even wood-combed Hohner MS harps don't seem 
to suffer from a quick wash-out.  My harps never give me cold sores or sore 
throats either.

Steve


http://mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk/trad_irish_harmonica
HEAR my CD clips: http://www.gjk2.com/steveshaw/cd.htm

_________________________________________________________________
The next generation of Hotmail is here! http://www.newhotmail.co.uk