Re: [Harp-L] Counterpoint / harp ??

[Philharpn@xxxxxxx]

While I concur with everything Vern said, it is possible to play counterpoint 
on the diatonic either as an alternating bass "melody" with an alternating 
treble melody. This works because the ear hears   a   continuous bass melody 
even when a bass melody is not played continuously. The trick is to keep it 
going. Choppy playing will sound like someone playing a melody with some bass notes 
inserted. It's kind of like chord vamping through tongue blocking only 
instead of a chord, a note or phrase is used in a different register (low octave) on 
the diatonic.
 
The other variety of counterpoint is the kind of remarkable things Richard 
Hunter plays, with simultaneous bass lines and treble lines. Check out his web 
site. There also may be some further   information is his Jazz Harp (book & CD) 
$17.95 -- available online wherever good books are sold.

Phil


In a message dated 2/5/08 6:23:31 PM, jevern@xxxxxxx writes:


> If you Google: counterpoint +harmonica, -glass,   you will get many hits.
> 
> The Harvard Musical Dictionary defines counterpoint as "...combination in a
> single musical fabric of lines or parts which have a distinctive melodic
> significance...."  Then there are 3 pages devoted to the subject!  If you
> play either part by itself, it will still sound like a tune.   To me it
> means that there are two equally important melodies that entertwine.
> Counterpoint comes in a thick book and requires a college course to study
> thoroughly.
> 
> You will encounter counterpoint primarily in classical music (Bach was the
> master of counterpoint) in pieces arranged for more than one harp. In my
> experience, most harpers read counterpoint from standard notation and play
> it on chromatics.
> 
> I play the Bach Two-Part-Invention in Am on my Hands-Free-Chromatic and
> guitar.  It is fun and challenging. I have the sheet music arranged for
> chromatic and guitar that I can email to anyone interested.  Bach's fifteen
> Two-Part Inventions are all examples of counterpoint at its best.
> 
> The Devienne flute duets are easy and a good way to start.  Hallway
> counterpoint was heard at the Garden State meeting before last.
> 
> Vern
> Visit my harmonica website www.Hands-Free-Chromatic.7p.com
> 
> 
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Wm.Galley" <mil-bil@xxxxxxx>
> To: "Harp-L" <harp-l@xxxxxxxxxx>
> Sent: Tuesday, February 05, 2008 2:11 PM
> Subject: [Harp-L] Counterpoint / harp ??
> 
> 
> Has 'counterpoint' been discussed here ?   How is it used re harmonicas ?
> Thanks,   W. G.
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