Tuesday, April 9, 2013

What Did You Miss This Week? (Week 307 #351)


Four Hole Bends!!!

Joe returned to his page two handout of rapid recall tracks last night. This features four draw bends in various forms - some for bluesy expression and effect, others to play the "missing note" on the four draw.

Note that there is room on the four draw to bend below the half step. This puts you at a note a piano cannot play...but that in second position is a killer blues sound. Don't bend hard; don't bend forcefully, but do bend below the half step if you're not playing a melody!

Speaking of playing too hard, as we practiced in class it was apparent that many people are moving parts of their face, jaw, shoulders etc when they bend. This is all too much counter-productive activity. Practice these rapid recall tracks and bends in front of a mirror so you can learn to identify your over-activity and calm it down.

Mystery Solved!!!

In quick response to our inquiry about this 'Harmonica Mystery Man' in last week's newsletter, historian Scott Dirks checked in to assure us that is Roosevelt Booba Barnes blowing harp on screen in the 1956 movie Baby Doll.  AND we're pleased to report we've found a clip of the film on youtube so you can go see and hear what we're talking about.

Here's Barnes ripping on Baby Please Don't Go.


Class Notes
  • Note that we've added a new Tab to the top of the YouMissedMonday website titled Rhythm & Chording Resources. This page lists great examples of relevant R & C techniques and players on youtube. These are must-see videos for those of you in the rhythm & chording class...and highly recommended to everyone! Check back to this page often for updates as we get them.
- Grant Kessler, B1 Blues Crew

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