Re: [Harp-L] Oh those overblows...

[michael rubin <michaelrubinharmonica@xxxxxxxxx>]

Chuck,
Bending a note lower in holes 8, 9 and 10 is not overblowing.  It is
high note blow bending.

Bending makes a note go lower in pitch.  Overblowing makes a note go
higher in pitch.

You overblow on holes 1 thru 6.  You overdraw on holes 7 thru 10.

It is possible to overblow on an unmodified harmonica.  One of the
main things that helps overblows is a tight gap between the reed and
the reed plate on both reeds in one hole.  If a harmonica comes
tightly gapped out of the box, as some do, it is easier to overblow.
If it does not come tightly gapped, it is still possible but it is
more difficult.
Michael Rubin
Michaelrubinharmonica.com

On Thu, May 31, 2012 at 4:29 PM, Chuck Linville
<linvillec@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
> Ok, I am thoroughly confused. I've been pretty much happy to stick with simple blues stuff since I started, and never really interested in getting too fast or too fancy. But after getting turned on to Howard Levy and watching other amazing guys doing these overblows, it's kinda overblowing my mind. I didn't think I had much of a use for them, but now I'm irritated because I can't do it... HA! Well, I got it doing "something"... it's squeakin and honkin like a goose. Sounds like someone learning the clarinet. Just awful. Alright, so two questions, if someone would be kind enough to help a guy out: 1) When I blow in holes 8, 9, and 10 and bend the note DOWN, is that "overblowing?" 2)I assume that it's at least possible to overblow on an unmodified harmonica, yes? My harps are 90% Special 20's  Thanks folks -chuck