Re: [Harp-L] Standard embouchures

[Bob Cohen <bob@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

On Aug 31, 2014, at 1:34 PM, Harmonicology [Neil Ashby] <harmonicology@xxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:

> (Harp Explorer)->"Does the throat not contain any of the air column used for bends?"
> 
> The _control_ of the resonant column of air which effects whether the note becomes bent is entirely within the oral cavity.

Respectfully Neil. I think Warren is spot on. Even when you think your mouth is creating the effects, something is happening in the back of your throat. As a suggestion, do what you normally do and be mindful of what's happening in the back of your throat.  I think you'll find there are things going on back there you didn't realize. Once you become conscious of those muscles, try to manipulate the reeds from there. Use different vowels. 

Here's a suggested approach: Without your harp, start out with your lips gently touching and pretend there's a bit of a hot potato on the cup of your tongue that you're trying to keep from the roof of your mouth. Try to relax all the muscles in your face and exhale singing  "Ahh" (you might want to grab a reference note from one of your harps to establish an accurate pitch). Go slowly. Run through the sequence of vowels. "a, e, i, o. u" Notice the the sounds are formed in different parts of your throat. Try the same thing inhaling. 

Next, pick up your harp, I'd used a G or an A because the lower reeds are easier to bend. On the two hole, try the same thing. Again relax your face muscles, be gentle, and be deliberate. I'd be surprised if you didn't hear fluctuations in the notes' intonation. 

Once you have isolated the muscles and figured out how to use them at will, try starting your bends from the throat instead of your mouth. Take care to keep your mouth and throat as open as possible. I suspect you'll find your tone and pitch stability will change dramatically.


Bob Cohen
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