Posted by Dr Harmonica on November 06, 2000 at 19:49:41:
In Reply to: Bass harmonica? posted by Dan on October 31, 2000 at 21:59:58:
: I play electric bass guitar and would like to learn to play a bass harmonica.
: Is it relatively easy to play? Are they diatonic or chromatic? Where do I buy? Are there good books or other resources on bass harmonica?
: All help is appreciated!
I know for a fact that playing a bass harmonica is far from easy. You have to let the air flow in ever so gently or nasty things happen like reeds twanging your covers and choking on you. Bass harmonica is a wonderful instrument, but it takes a helluva' lot of time to practice it.
There is no rule for bass harmonicas as to being diatonic or chromatic. Some are double, linked with a hinge on the back. These models are chromatic for sure. About the others I simply don't know. All I know is that comparing a bass harmonica to any other type is like comparing a camel to a case of cucumbers.
One more thing about bass harmonicas: Hold your wallet, because those things are stinking expensive. A standard hinged bass with two chromatic octaves will cut you free of about 3,000 of your hard-earned dollars. Huang has a more friendly priced model (some 800 bux), but I guess with bass harmonicas it is the same: what you get is what you pay for. Checking out Danny Wilson at http://www.bassharp.com is indeed a good idea. You could write or mail him too, pick his brain. He is a friendly guy and more than willing to supply you with answers if you need some.
Hope I answered your question somewhat.
Happy harpin'
Doc
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