[Harp-L] Embouchure for tuning

[Lasse Høi <hoeilasse@xxxxxxxxx>]

In my quest for better tuning I've done some experiments to find out
how to get more stable readings from my tuner software (Using both
TuneLab and Hohner Harmonica tuner)

Also, I'd like to separate the different contributing factors.

The most stable reading I have achieved have been on a slightly warmed
harp, looking only at draw notes (to eliminate condensation
influence).

I don't use a bench so I try to be very consistent in embouchure and
playing volume (I aim for mezzo forte, which of course is a subjective
term).
The reed plates are on.

However I still get variations of up to +/- 5 cents when playing the
same reed several time separated by a few minuted pause. If I look at
the tuner and focus on hitting the same pitch as before I can usually
adjust to it.  But this doesn't reading tell me much about whether I
actually tuned the reed as I intended.

It seems that the better tone, resonance and volume I get the higher
the pitch is, which make me think that the "tuned pitch" is the
highest achievable pitch, because here you have the least amount of
involuntary bending. I would imagine this would be the pitch you would
get in a bench.

(I am introducing the term "tuned pitch" to separate it from "playing
pitch" which will always be a little lower due to condensation)

So... should I always try to adjust my embouchure to get the highest
possible pitch? Would a bench achieve the same?

Any thoughts or similar experiment you would like to share?

Best regards, Lasse