[Harp-L] Another Tony Eyers question

[Tony Eyers <tony@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Bin in DC asked

"I've listened to you play fiddle tunes and thought you played them all
on a modified harp in 2nd pos. Why would you switch to 1st position
for some?"

I do use modified Major Cross harmonicas mostly, but I like first 
position also. Hence I practice it. I wrote the harmonica player's New 
Year resolution article around two years ago, since then I've gotten 
seriously into Asian Tremolos. Once you get your head around them, the 
layout is similar to first position. So, further motivation for 1st 
position playing. I'm playing fiddle tunes on the tremolos, also some 
French accordion stuff.

"Finally, what works best for you to increase speed?"

I use Band in a Box backings extensively, have done so for around 15 
years. When learning a new tune, I wind the Band in a Box backing way 
back, say to 80, practice until the tune is perfect, increase the speed 
by 5, practice again until it's perfect, increase by 5 again and so on. 
It takes time, but it works. I've also spent a lot of time on technical 
exercises with a metronome. I enjoy them, they are a bit like 
meditating. Plus they much a big difference to your music. If you're 
interested, details are at www.HarmonicaAcademy.com

Tony
Australia
www.HarmonicaAcademy.com
...everyone plays