sticking reeds
When I play a blow a note right after an overblow on the same hole, the reed often sticks and the blow note won't sound at all. This can happen on holes 4, 5 or 6 and my harps are set up for overblows. Is this a common problem and how do I fix it? Also, when a reed is constantly sticking, does this eventually damage the reed?
Thanks for your reply.
I guess the only way a reed could stick is with saliva and that's not happening, so it must be me. I think that the overblowing action temporarily screws with my muscle memory making a blow after an overblow difficult. We take it for granted, but we need a certain embouchure just to blow or draw an unbent note.
Your lessons are great!
No problem---and thanks for the kind words!
Regarding the reeds sticking...saliva can be an issue and there is definitely an adjustment that will likely need to made in terms of pressure when playing an opitimized harp for the first time. That being said, these aren't the only reasons for sticking reeds. If the reeds are gapped too tightly, that can also be a culprit. I suggest reviewing Richard Sleigh's videos for more info on gapping.
Best,
Ross
This is a tough question to answer without seeing your harps! However, generally the reeds are going to be gapped tighter on a harp set up for OB/OD and there will be a trade off: closer gap/easier to OB vs wider the gap/less chance of responding slowly. I have certainly found that I'll gap a blow reed tightly on 4-6 and marvel at how easy the OB's play---and then I'll go to play a bit harder or faster phrases and realize I have to widen the gaps a bit to restore some responsiveness.
Hope this helps!
RG