[Harp-L] 4 Blow Reed Failures

[IcemanLE@xxxxxxx]

Breathe the harmonica rather than blow/draw -
 
The second factor is bending past the point of bending - in other words,  you 
may not be aware that there is a range of pitch available for any bend, with  
a definite bottom (or "floor") - regardless of whether it is an inhale or 
exhale  bend. Try to develop a feel for when the pitch has stopped its bending 
movement  and recognize this as a definite point at which you don't wish to push 
any  further. Actually, a sweeter bend tone can be achieved by recognizing 
this end  point and stopping a little before you reach it, as I describe as 
"floating a  foot above the floor of the bend". This can become a subtle tactile 
sensation to  where you can feel it out.
 
There is also a way to understand the bending technique and refine it to  
moving a "sweet spot" in the tongue a very minimal amount to receive maximum  
effect, becoming a very subtle maneuver rather than a throat engorged jaw  
dropping tongue curling endeavor.
 
Most unenlightened just tend to SUCK or BLOW on down to the max with no  
finesse, stressing the reed beyond any reasonably efficient return for the  energy 
or effort engaged, resulting in blowing out reeds and/or creating notes  that 
are way on the flat side.
 
 
In a message dated 12/20/2008 4:32:19 P.M. Eastern Standard Time,  
winslowyerxa@xxxxxxxxx writes:

You're  sucking too hard and breaking the blow reed. It's that  simple.

Try bending gently at a whisper-quiet volume. Once you  get the hang of it, 
you'll see how little energy you need to bend a note. Then  try to apply that 
minimal amount of force to bending at nomral volumes. Then,  try to integrate 
it into your live playing, where adrenaline and force of  habit may lead you to 
continue playing too  hard.


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