Ask Harp Tech Expert Kinya Pollard

Can you recommend any resources for Butterfield transcriptions? Is his book worth picking up?
-Taylor

Been working my way through Rollin Rhumba on my G Harmonica...hoping to record and send to David today...and my 5 Draw has gone on me. I'm still a beginner, but to my ear it sounds like my 5 blow now...is that possible?
It's a Hohner Special 20.
Is it time to go get a new one or is it salvagable?
Thank you!

Hi Kinya,

What's the best way to bend the draw reed plate to avoid reed rattle on the lower part of lower keyed harps? My current approach is to manically crush and mangle it with a plyers until it looks like it went through the disposal. I'm thinking you might have a more efficient approach. ;)

Thanks,

Steve

Now that Brad Harrison bit the dust, I'm not sure what to do next. The one B-rad I got is the best instrument I've owned, but that's history now.

Who will take an order for customization from an amateur like me and how much is it likely to cost?

Barring customization, can you give me some opinions on the "best of breed" out-of-the-box 10-hole diatonic? My goal is traditional Chicago blues, but I really like the sweet tones of stuff like "Georgia On My Mind" and "Blues in A Major", etc.

I should have pointed out that it is the 3 blow that is not responding when the button is in.

I have a Hohner Super Chromonica C that I have lost the #3 hole with the button in. I assume it is "junk" in the reed plate somewhere, but I have not cleaned a chromatic before and don't want to damage it. I lost the hole while playing. any suggestions welcomed.

Hello Harpsmith,
I purchased a Hohner Service Kit. There's a problem with the screwdriver. The slotted end does not fit the little screws on the cover plates of the Marine Band series. Can you shed any light on this issue?

Hello Everyone,
Next month, David and I will resume filming of the Harp Tech series. Our focus study will be on customizing the gold standard of all harmonicas, the 1896 Marine Band (yes the harmonica held together with nails).

I am in the process of creating my outline and wanted to ensure the lion's share of your MB wish list is covered. Please post your list of things you would like to see covered.

Your Harpsmith,
Kinya

Save those plastic food container lids, such as yogurt, potato chips, etc. They make terrific small parts holders!
Your Harpsmith,
Kinya

Hello Fellow Harp-Techs,
For those of you who can't get enough of a good thing ... check out the new issue of Harmonica Sessions:

http://harmonicasessions.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Pollard-Oct2011.pdf.

Here I review the line of Special 20 combs manufactured by BluesXlabs.

Your Harpsmith,
Kinya