Re: [Harp-L] Breaking in new harps

[Vern <jevern@xxxxxxx>]

Short answer:
The proper method is don't bother.

Long answer:
The harmonica has no living cells or blood supply to support them.  The metal of the reeds cannot grow stronger than when they are new. The whole concept of "breaking in" a harmonica by a period of gentle playing is false.  There was a time long ago when new cars were "broken in" to give the rubbing parts a chance to wear off the high spots and for the trash left in the engine to get flushed out.  However, a harmonica has no rubbing parts.

A period of gentle playing might get the player accustomed to taking it easy.  This could conceivably have some imperceptibly slight effect on reed life. In this case it is you that is being broken in and not the instrument.

You can enjoy your new instrument at full throttle without being concerned with "breaking it in."  This is probably a good idea.  It will reveal any infant mortalities attributable to faults such as slag inclusions in the reed metal. If any of the reeds are prone to failure, you want it to happen right away. Then you can send it back while it is still in warranty.

Vern

On May 17, 2013, at 8:36 PM, John Kapetan <kapetanj4696@xxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:

> I received a few new Manjis today. Anyone have good advice on the proper method of breaking in new harps. 
> 
> 
> Thanks a lot, 
> 
> 
> John Kapetan