Re: [Harp-L] Re: Creating solid notes through bending techniques

[IcemanLE@xxxxxxx]

With no standardized ultimate technique being taught in how to bend, what  
I've discovered is that players will bundle exactly what needs to be done with a 
 lot of extraneous movements. In other words, if one bends successfully and 
also  drops their jaw, contracts their throat muscles, wiggles their Adams 
Apples,  etc, the result is still a successful bend. I teach my students to 
unbundle  their muscles and eliminate what is not necessary to achieve the goal.
 
The most fun are the beginners that lock up all the muscles in their neck  
and shoulders as they attempt to learn the techniques and then wonder why they  
are so exhausted after practicing for 10 minutes. I get them to see how much  
energy they waste bundling all their head, neck and shoulder muscles into one  
big glump. When they relax enough to play the harmonica while freely moving  
around their head, neck, shoulders, it is a big revelation and they realize 
how  much they were wasting their energy in useless movement and tension. The 
same  can be done if you go inside yourself and re-examine your bend technique. 
You  may discover that you are adding unnecessary muscle movement.
 
The Iceman
 
 
In a message dated 10/6/2008 2:41:21 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time,  
dave@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx writes:

I just  went through a test bend embouchure, I can put my hand on my throat  
and feel my throat muscles contracting. My Adam's apple drops about an  inch, 
too. So what you're saying is those muscles are pulling down the back of  my 
tongue?




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