Hole 2 draw problem
Reposting this for you Kinya...
"I have a Hohner Marine Band 1896 and the draw note on hole 2 is very quiet/muted. This seems to be a harmoica issue rather than technique-based because I also have a less frequently used C harmonica where draw note on 2 is fine. I have tried using a paper clip to free the reed without success and have also tried to use my jewellers screwdriver set to disassemble but the screw heads are very difficult to turn (are they actually nails with a slot in the top?)
Could you please advise what I could do to get my harp working again?
Thanks,
Mark"
Thanks Kinya. I'll check out the video(s)
Mark.
PERFECT
Your HARPSMITH, Kinya
Hi again Kinya,
I have just bought a fairly expensive Hohner Crossover as this is the one that David recommends at the start of the levels of achievment programme. This because I thought that there was an issue with hole 2 draw on my Marine Band 1896. This new harp has the same hole 2 draw problem which means that I am the common factor!
If I get the embouchure right, hole 2 draw sounds OK on both the Crossover and 1896, hence there is no issue with the harps.
When hole 2 draw sounds well, I can feel the inhaled air going down my throat more easily. I think that I had the 'humped tongue' issue. I don't regret buying the new harp: I now have 3. I think good harp players seem to have a selection.
Thanks for your help.
Mark.
Right. With the Marine Band 1896 and Marine Band Crossover, you are in very good company inside the community of serious harmonica players ;o)
GOAL: endeavor to match your 2 DRAW against the pure tone of BLOW 3. Same note.
For my students experiencing the same issue as you, I have them try these three proven techniques:
- Yawn. This movement will naturally drop your tongue and jaw; giving your air flow a straight shot to the back of your throat
- Look in the mirror (don't laugh) and watch your mouth as you say your most convincing Santa Claus--"HO HO HO". Notice how your tongue and jaw moves into the perfect position--simply reverse the air flow by drawing in
- With a tongue depressor (popicle stick), flatten the hump your tongue
Use muscle memory to remember what these sensations felt like. Now that you beat your tongue and jaw into submission, return the harmonica to your mouth and draw on the 2
Your HARPSMITH, Kinya
Your advice is solid gold Kinya. I've printed it out. It's good that I didn't start to dismantle the 1896. I wasn't sure whether I could successfully reinsert the brads after disassembly.
Mark.
Glad to be of service. Well done Mark!
Your HARPSMITH, Kinya
Hi Mark, sorry you are having such a difficult time with your beloved HOHNER Marine Band 1896.
My recommendation is for you to view my HARPSMITH tutorials, specifically on how to work on the Marine Band harmonica.
https://www.bluesharmonica.com/harpsmith_bench
After watching the Marine Band University Series, please check back with me so that we can see if you were able to rectify the problem you are having.
Your HARPSMITH, Kinya