Draw reeds stick after blow bending
Hi Kinya,
I'm working on "Blowin' The Blues" with all of its high octave blow bends. When I practice the blow bend licks, I find that the draws, especially draw 8, stick on me. They open if I draw very hard on the harp.
Do you think I need to adjust my harp, such as gap, or is it my technique that needs adjustment.
I'm relatively new to blow bends.
Thanks,
-Steve
Hi Kinya,
In an attempt to give you better info, I've practiced for the last couple weeks with both G harps I have, and I've found the scenario that makes the draw reeds to stick.
The 8 is fine during normal playing.
When I practice a blow bend lick over and over, say a dozen or more times, the draws will stick. Doing the tap the harmonica trick seems to solve the problem most of the time.
When I play through the song at a medium temo, there is no problem. It's only when I play very slowly or spend an inordinate amount of time blow bending.
So I'm guessing this is a technique thing?
Hi Steve, The good news--Dentists say--the more you drool, the better protection for your teeth ;o)
However, for harmonica players, excessive saliva is a bummer--particular on close tolerence reeds, like the 8 (gap = .003" ~ .004").
To isolate and troubleshoot this theory, shooting low volume (compressed) air into the chamber works extremely well. This cleans the saliva off the reeds. Do you have access to an air compressor? If not, spanking the harp on the heel of your hand or thigh will have to do ...
Your Harpsmith, Kinya
Kinya,
What constitutes low volume? And, what range of pressure is tolerable for blow-cleaning reeds?
Thanks
Hi Jim,
The low volume of air would be similar to the air pressure one would use when attempting to blow out those embarassing "can't be blown out" candles on a birthday cake ;o)
Your Harpsmith, Kinya
Hi Steve, good to hear from you.
I need alittle more information:
Q1: With "normal" playing, are you able to blow and draw on #8 without any drama?
Q2: Do you have another harmonica of similar pitch to compare with?
Your Harpsmith, Kinya