Re: [Harp-L] low F#

[Michael Rubin <michaelrubinharmonica@xxxxxxxxx>]

There is an old Doonesbury cartoon where Jimmy Thudpucker is making an
album.  They call in the famous studio guitarist and explain the kind of
mood they want.  Plaintive, wistful, etc.  He says, "You mean, like
something in an F?"

In other words, keys aren't just arbitrary.  They create a mood.  Have your
band play one of its long time songs in another key.  You'll feel a major
difference, even if the key is only a half step away.

F# and its brother keys have a mood.  Just because musicians tend to be
afraid of the skill level necessary to play in those keys, doesn't mean the
mood isn't beautiful and deserves more attention.  Hendrix is quoted as
saying F# was his favorite key.
Michael Rubin
michaelrubinharmonica.com

On Tue, Jan 5, 2016 at 6:35 AM, Mick Zaklan <mzaklan@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:

>    Low F# is my go-to harp for just about anything in Bb, as a longtime 5th
> position player.  I think 4th might be an easier position for "Take Five,"
> however.  "Summertime" and Van Morrison's "Moon Dance," too.
>
> Mick Zaklan
>