Re: [Harp-L] Caring for a new Chromatic?

[michael rubin <michaelrubinharmonica@xxxxxxxxx>]

I have heard Sean play chromatic and he is kicking butt with it!
Michael Rubin
Michaelrubinharmonica.com

On Tue, Dec 14, 2010 at 2:13 PM, Winslow Yerxa <winslowyerxa@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:
> Players vary in their beliefs about whether breaking in is a reality for
> harmonica. But it can't hurt to play it gently at first until you discover how
> the notes respond. This is especially true in the top four holes, where you may
> find the notes difficult to sound at first.
>
> Chromatics are more sensitive to foreign matter, gummy substances, etc., than
> diatonics, because each reed has a think plastic strip called a valve mounted
> over the reedslot on the opposite side of the reedplate from the reed. You can
> cause these to buzz, rattle, stick, pop, and bray if you breathe sticky, oily or
> other particles into the harp, so always play with a clean mouth free of
> residues and debris. The slide can also get gummed up for the same reason.
>
> The buzzing could be a valve. Warm up the harmonica befre playing as already
> suggested, and this may help. Also, the valve may settle down once you've played
> the harp for awhile.
>
> Once you're done playing, hold the harp in one hand with the holes facing down
> and tap the holes on the palm of the other hand. Then Hold the slide button in
> and do the same for the second set of reeds. Prop the slider holes halfway open
> with a totthpich and let the insides air dry for awhile before putting the
> harmonica back in the box.
>
> Good luck, and welcome to playing the chromatic.
>  Winslow Yerxa
> Author, Harmonica For Dummies ISBN 978-0-470-33729-5
> Harmonica instructor, The Jazzschool for Music Study and Performance
> Resident expert, bluesharmonica.com
> Chromatic harmonica columnist, harmonicasessions.com
>
>
>
>
> ________________________________
> From: Sean Murphy <taser8@xxxxxxxxx>
> To: Harp-l Mailing List <harp-l@xxxxxxxxxx>
> Sent: Tue, December 14, 2010 8:31:07 AM
> Subject: [Harp-L] Caring for a new Chromatic?
>
> I just got a beautiful new Super Chromonica and I want to make sure I'm
> breaking it in right - any suggestions for proper care and treatment?
>
> Also, I've noticed that the 1-draw is buzzing slightly - is that common? Can
> I expect it to work itself out, or is there anything I should do to check it
> out or address the problem?
>
> Thanks!
> Sean
>
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