Hohner Super 64 makes lip sore
Hey all, I have been playing harp for many years and play quite often. I primarily play diatonic Marine Bands and play all night with a band and have no soreness on my lips, but when I play my Super 64 chromatic for a short while my upper lip gets sore from friction. It seems the cover on the comb causes more friction. Does anyone have any tips for cleaning, polishing, etc. that can help to alleviate this problem? Or is it just bad technique!
Thanks for the advice, Winslow. I think you are right about lip tension. I never was aware that I was clamping down so hard. I just played for a half hour being conscious of staying loose and relaxed and my lips are not sore at all! A different perspective is a wonderful thing. Nice to have a forum to learn from, also. Thanks again.
The differnt size and shape of a chromatic mouthpiece may require you to adjust your embouchure. It puts the covers farther away from your lips, for one thing.
In general, your best embouchure is one with zero lip pressure against the instrument. Your lips should drape onto the harmonica and form a gently floating cushion that seals air leaks and has enough lubrication to let the harmoncia glide from hole to hole.
When you pick up the chromatic and start to play, check for lips tension, clamping down, and pressure against the mouthpiece. If you detect any of these, try to find a way to eliminate them.