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From: WVE~ol.com
Date: Sat, 7 Sep 1996 18:31:08 -0400
Subject: Re: basic questions about chromatic

In a message dated 96-09-07 02:38:00 EDT, krs writes:

> Is it true that you
>can get all notes on the chromatic without bending?

Yes

> How often does the
>slide come into play and just what does the slide do?

The slide is pressed whenever you play a note that appears on the black key
of a piano.
The chromatic is like two harmonicas under one set of covers. One is in the
key of C and the other is in the key of C#. The slide switches the airflow
to one or the other. It is possible to buy chromatics tuned in other keys
but they are used rarely because it is possible to play in any key on a C
chromatic.

> Do you need formal
>instruction to learn how to play the chromatic effectively?

Most good chromatic players read music. You may need a teacher to help you
learn to read. As on any other serious musical instrument, a teacher can
motivate you to practice, prevent you from developing bad habits, and
introduce techniques that don't necessarily come naturally. However, there
are many self-taught chromatic players.
You may not be able to find a qualified harp teacher near your home. I know
of players who take lessons from flute teachers. There are also harp
teachers who will work with you by mailing tapes.

> What is a
>good chromatic model to start with,

The Hohner Super Chromonica model 270 (12 holes) is good and can be bought
for less than $100.

and could you also recommend a book
>or tape, etc?

I like THE TOMMY REILLY HARMONICA COURSE published by M. Hohner that includes
a tape or record. One reason that I like it is that it doesn't waste your
time with tablature. IMHO tablature is a snare and a delusion. It seems to
be easier to those who have an aversion to reading standard notation.
However, it is actually more difficult to read than standard notation.
Also, about the only place you will find chromatic tablature pieces is in
harp instruction books. You may find others on harp-l who disagree about
tablature.

Hope this helps,

Vern