Hi. Recently I noticed that my new Special 20 Marine Band and a 1868 Marine band were giving beat frequencies when I played octaves on the 1 and 4 blow. I tested the tunings and found that in both, the 1 blow was tuned to 440 and the 4 blow was tuned to 443. I understand that people tune to various frequencies around 440, but I'm surprised to find two different frequencies used for "A" in the same instrument. Since it occurs in both harps, and since the tunings seem exact for each frequency, I suspect the tuning is intentional. Does anyone know if this is the way Honer does things? If so, why? I understand the some harps are tuned high to account for breath moisture (or saliva?) induced flattening. Do they reason that most people spend most of their time in the middle of the harp, and so that's were the most moisture will build up? I haven't tested this directly. Also, I haven't yet determined whether the other reeds are tuned to 440 or 443 (I hope to get to it tonight).
Thanks for your input.
--- tony
p.s. B.B. King is currently touring the US. Does anyone know who his harp player is? I've heard Jerry Portnoy may tour with him for a while. Are there any New Englanders out there who know if JP is going to play at at BBs september date at Greatwoods in MA?
p.p.s. The recent discussion re: amps and mics has been very very helpful. Thanks to all.