Re: [Harp-L] "The Conversation"....Harmonica as a Second Language

[David Payne <dave@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

My email just shows the first part of the subject line, till I open the msg. I saw "The Conversation" part only and assumed it was about playing the song of that name (first line... "Hank, let's talk about your daddy...). When I opened the msg, it wasn't what I expected, it was something different, but very good points. Literally, I really did think at first it was about Hank, figuratively, that's an excellent way to present such a conversation to the listener, a little bit of something familar (in my case, Hank), but then a departure from that into something pleasant and meaningful. 

I'm a writer and I really don't see a difference between music and writing. One uses words, the other notes. It's all about construction, there are rules for each, but plenty of room for individual expression.

Dave
_________________________
Dave Payne Sr.
Elk River Harmonicas
www.elkriverharmonicas.com 



----- Original Message ----
From: Warren Bee <wlb@xxxxxxxxxxxx>
To: harp-l@xxxxxxxxxx
Sent: Friday, October 24, 2008 9:16:10 PM
Subject: [Harp-L] "The Conversation"....Harmonica as a Second Language

Lot's of cool responses and sharing of thoughts these last few days here on
the "L". As I process the dialog I think that we are all in agreement in
many ways. Some have different takes than others but the bottom line seems
to be as my subject line suggests. Music is a conversation. Good
conversations need mutual respect from the participants. The individuals in
the conversation also need a respect for their instrument. In a performance
situation or even jam sessions for that matter, "musical conversations" are
best when there is a common theme and a specific "environmental tone". That
tone needs to "work" both on stage for the players and out in the audience
as well. Poor dynamics and interaction make for a lousy conversation. When
the "language of harmonica" is used with respect in a spirited conversation
the magical opportunities rise up. As with all conversations if you don't
have something intelligent to add then saying nothing and just listening is
a wonderful perspective to keep. When you listen your mind has fuel to
create. Sometimes you just need to add a few words and not complete
sentences to participate in the conversation. Sometimes, depending on the
conversation, loud, rapid fire exchanges of ideas are ok as well. Different
conversations can have different sets of dynamics that work. 



I am working on a plan to do more teaching, mostly with beginners. I love
turning people onto the harp and helping them to get started. There are many
more serious and better players/teachers that can take over after I have lit
the fire. This is where I came up with the working title/concept: "Harmonica
as a Second language". If there is one thing I want a new player to grasp as
soon as possible it is what I learned a long time ago. It's not all about
notes, licks, bends, trills, scales etc. It's about experiencing the coolest
feeling in the world. When you find your self in the middle of a musical
conversation and your presence is appreciated in that conversation. That
appreciation will come from respect of others and knowing how to use your
current level of speaking the harmonica language. Less can be more.
Sometimes one note can say it all.



Warren Bee 

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