On Oct 2, 2011, at 10:43 PM, Elizabeth Hess wrote:
On both my chromatic harps, after 20-30 minutes of playing, the slide seems like it goes over a sort of "speed bump" when I release it. Not a burr, but more like the spring tension itself suddenly gets tighter before it opens all the way. When I keep playing, it makes an "almost click" sort of sound when it releases. Is this a common symptom with a straightforward fix?
Yes, common. You have a bit of dried goo or burn mark in one spot.
The harps play fine otherwise, but it's distracting.
It sure is.
I've been rinsing with water after each practice session, and propping the slide half-open to let everything air out. Anything else I should try?
Check the slide to see if you have a burn mark in the slide plating. Not an actual burn but a 'mechanical' burn. It shows up as a dull rub mark. If this is the case, smooth it with a brillo pad. If it was some dried goo, it will also disappear.
Thanks in advance, Elizabeth