dear God, please don't let me be a no-tone wonder?
In one of your recent posts, you used the label "no-tone wonders" in reference to what might happen if one does not focus on developing a good tone early in their studies. I’m worried this could be me.
In your Dynamics lesson on tone, you discuss what tone is and what you do to get good tone, such as expanding the sides of your throat. Every time I try to expand my throat to see if I can get better tone, I end up bending the note. I’m not sure my untrained ears would know if I’m getting better tone or not. I know you talk about tone some in levels 1 and 2, but I don’t remember there being a particular lesson on producing good tone. I was in a rush to become musical and likely missed that lesson.
Also how do I measure or know if I’m getting good tone?
I’m just getting started on level 4, so if this is stuff for future lessons let me know and I will work on it when I get there.
Thank you,
Brian in Tennessee
Hello Brian.
I'm glad you found your answer.
We cover good tone fundamentals in your beginning lessons...when learning how to produce a single note.
The unwanted bending that you get when expanding your throat is caused by unintentionally humping your tongue. Focus on lowering your tongue in the back while expanding your throat. It's smart to confirm this movement in the mirror (without the harmonica in your mouth of course). Most students think they're lowering their tongue, and they are not.
Sorry, I think I posted too soon. I went back and watch the videos on Tone in your Dynamics lessons, and you answer my questions including how to measure by recording yourself using an omni-directional microphone.
Like everything else, I just need to keep practicing.
My next song, “Feelin’ Stupid Right Now”