Re: [Harp-L] explain positions to beginner

[Michael Rubin <michaelrubinharmonica@xxxxxxxxx>]

I can't answer in one sentence.

A harmonica is a group of notes.  Choose the notes that sound good in the
desired key and avoid the notes that do not.  Therefore since every
standard harmonica has all the notes on a keyboard for a 40 note range, you
can play in any key on any harp.

Tell him to stop thinking about the harmonica as in the key of C, but more
a harmonica named C, the reason being 1 blow is the note C.  That's the
ONLY connection to the key of C.

Teach him the notes on a keyboard.  Now say, since every note that is
played in the western scale is on the keyboard, explain you can play in any
key by choosing the notes that sound good and avoiding the ones that do not.

Now, let's say the lowest note on your keyboard is C.  Ask if he is
restricted to playing in the key of C or can play in any key he wants.

Now, block out the low C note with your hands.  Imagine if this keyboard
started on C#.  Could you still play in every key or are you restricted to
C#?  Then do D.

Explain that is all the name of a harp is, the starting note.  Any harp
plays in any key, and some keys are easy and cool sounding.
Michael Rubin
michaelrubinharmonica.com


On Tue, Jun 24, 2014 at 7:11 PM, Robert Hale <robert@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:

> What concept am I missing?
>
> My student doesn't see ANY reason for regarding harps in different
> positions. (He has most of the diatonic keys)
> "It's a C harp, why wouldn't it always play songs in the key of C?"
>
> Sure, I can show the theory and scales and such...but it does not connect.
> He has studied with me for several years, is making progress, and likes the
> melody skills he has learned. Has even gone on stage with me at an open
> mic.
>
> Example:
> It came up today. The unison hook in Roy Orbison's Candy Man would not be
> properly played in 1P, but needs the draw 5 for the flatted 7th tone in 2P.
> Yes we paralleled the line with a C harp in G, and a G harp in G. Nothing.
>
> In ONE SENTENCE can I give him a starting point, a reason to "see" this
> relationship?
> (Or should I just leave him alone, happy as he is?) <grin>
>
> Robert Hale
> Spiral Advocate (Fanatic!)
> Learn Harmonica by Webcam
> http://www.youtube.com/DUKEofWAIL
>  http://www.dukeofwail.com
>