Volume on the Bandstand - Tools to Deal with It

Excessive volume from the band is an extremely common problem for harmonica players. We have issues hearing ourselves (which causes feedback problems trying to raise above the volume of the band) and all ideas of musicality and dynamics are thrown out the window. Here are some tools you can use to help combat this...

1) Make it a rule of thumb to gesture to the band to lower the volume (by lowering your horizontal hand and lowering your body) at the beginning of your solo. This at least allows you to start your solo at a moderate volume and the inevitable increasing of volume as your solo creates a nice dynamic effect.

2) Tell the band, "Let's bring our volume down for this song."

3) Play with like-minded musicians in regards to volume. In our early years we're happy to play with anyone, so we can't be too choosey, but as the years go on you build a community of musicians around you that you can choose from.

4) Use an upright bass player, they're as prone to feedback issues as harmonica players. This is one of the primary reasons today's great players prefer to use upright players.

Do you have ideas to share? If so, please add to this post your experiences. Have a great weekend!