Re: [Harp-L] scales and positions

[Arthur Jennings <timeistight@xxxxxxxxx>]

A scale is "any sequence of musical
notes<http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Note_%28music%29>in an ascending or
descending order". For example, the notes C, D, E, F, G,
A, B, and C (one octave higher) can be thought of as the "C major scale".
If you play melodies using this scale, you are said to be playing in the
<b>key</b> of C major. You can play this scale on a C harmonica thus: 4
blow, 4 draw, 5 blow, 5 draw, 6 blow, 6 draw, 7 draw, 7 blow.

Even though diatonic harmonicas were originally designed to play in a
single key, it is possible to play them in keys other than the key they
were designed to play in. Position describes the relationship between the
key the harmonica was designed to play in and the key you <em>are<em>
playing in. For example, you can play the C major scale on an F harmonica:
2 draw, 3 draw full-step bend, 3 draw, 4 blow, 4 draw, 5 blow, 5 overblow,
6 blow.



On Wed, Sep 19, 2012 at 9:36 PM, William Madel <wmadel@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:

> been playing for about 18 months.  Of the many weaknesses that I still see
> in myself as a player, I seem to have an overall lack of awareness and
> comprehension regarding scales and positions.  I naturally pick up scales
> (seemingly) although I don't know any, and I often play in positions other
> than 1st and 2nd even though i have no idea what that even means because I
> barely comprehend 1st and 2nd position.
>
> Any discussion on these topics will be helpful for sure.  I'm also hoping
> for some advice on how to practice and comprehend scales and positions
> better.  I'm definitely willing to practice, but my practice habits are
> dull and ineffective right now.
>
>
> Thanks all.
>
>
> William
> Philly PA
>



-- 
Arthur Jennings
http://www.timeistight.com