Posted by Bill Eaton (198.107.4.38) on September 08, 2000 at 00:07:33:
In Reply to: Beginner, 2nd Harmonca Messed Up! Help! posted by Heydigger on September 04, 2000 at 17:55:17:
: I've been playing a few months now, and have somehow managed to goof up my second harmonica. Both times the same - I'm in the middle of playing and suddenly the 5th hole draw changes to match the 5th hole blow pitch.
: What am I doing wrong here? Is there any way to fix?
: I've got a Hohner "Blues Harp MS"...
You're probably drawing to hard, and permantly "bending" draw 5. As scott mentioned your best bet is to get a new harp, like the Special 20. I've used Blues harps too, without this problem.
It can be fixed by gently filing the tip of draw reed 5 (draws are on the bottom). Remove the cover and use a flat straight blade or a small file and do just a bit at a time then sandwich the harp back together and test with a guitar tuner... This is an advanced skill and you'll likely mess up a harp or 2 attempting. That's why I suggest a new harp. But this is a great skill once mastered.
If you want more details, feel free to contact me via email... lessons for free etc...