positions playing and bends LOA 3
David, I just wanted to tell you the first thing I looked at when starting LOA 3 was look at Positions Playing part 1 and 2. I now have a decent understanding as to what positions are and why they are usefull. I can't tell you how much I'm enjoying the lessons. And the amount of detail available on the website is awesome.
Now as far as bending goes, the MRI study is facinating. Again, the details you've included are simply unbelieveable. I've gotten my first few bends already and can see how it takes time and practice to get them right. And then to remember where the tongue is positioned to hit the bend right on. I can get the 6, 5 and 4 holes pretty good but the lower holes sound like I'm gargling which I assume is just my tongue position is wrong. Have you ever heard that complaint before and have any tips?
I'm thoroughly enjoying learning and give you many kudos on offering such a plethora of in depth knowledge and information on the harmonica and Blues. Many thanks!
-Joe
I'm able to at least bend all the draw notes...now just need to practice to get better transition between notes. I noticed in the video for Bending Stdy 2 EX. 1.1 thru 1.4, Harp Ninja shows you're actually bending the 5 draw D a half step to C#. I am only able to get the D about 25% flat. I would think the tougue has to be pretty close to where it is for the 6 draw. Is there something special with the 5 draw or is it just the need for more practice?
Hello joed. You're right, I'm getting very close to C# (I'm not hitting C# totally, I'm just sharp of it... we cannot hit the blow reed's pitch in bending). You're also right about the technique... it's pretty similar to the position of the 6 draw, but just slightly further back in the mouth (not as far back as the 4 though). Just keep doing it... it will come with time.
Is it more difficult or easier based on the key of the harp? On the G I find the 2 harder and the 5 and 6 easier. On the C I find the 3 harder and the 4 easier. On the A I find the 4 and 5 harder. I'm predominantly practicing with the A but occassionally try the others.
Also, does the rate of the inhale have anything to do with the bend? Do I need to inhale harder or softer for some bends?
Hello joed.
You will find some harmonicas, and holes, easier to bend than others (this is different for each person by the way). The key is to keep experimenting... you'll get them all within time.
Always keep in mind that if you're moving up the harmonica (say from 3 draw to 4 draw), that you'll want to use more of the front of your tongue, further forward in your mouth. If you're moving down the harmonica, you'll use more of the back of the tongue, further back in your mouth. Keep in mind that these changes are small (it's easy to move too far).
In regards to breathing... your goal is to use the same rate for your bends as you do for normal play.
Thanks for the comments/compliments Joe. Yeah, gurgling just means you’re bending too far back in your throat. The furthest back position will be behind your molars, so you’re simply going too far back... focus more on humping up.