Other web Sites
Harmonica Blues  Harmonica Amps
Harmonica Links Harmonica Pages
• Archives Home
• Years
 · 1992
 · 1993
 · 1994
 · 1995
 · 1996
 · 1997 		 · 1998
 · 1999
 · 2000
 · 2001
 · 2002
 · 2003
 
Web HarpL
Ebay Searches:
Amps:
Microphones:
Effects:
Harmonicas and Gear:
Harmonica Music and Instruction:

 

 

Harp-L Archives

[Previous Message] [Next Message]
[Next in Thread]
[Start of Thread] [End of Thread]

From: "Michael Will"
Date: 28 Oct 1995 08:53:50 -0700
Subject: Harp in Orchestra (was- Com

Reply to: Harp in Orchestra (was: Composers information)

Winslow wrote:
>> harmonica is capable of, they like the wide-ranging variety of output
>> and the combination of thrilling single note and unique chordal sounds.

B'e G'o wrote:
>If the instrument's level of volume is problematic . . .

It seems to me that a large part of the character of the harmonica changes
with mic'ing and amplification. Let me propose (duck and run) that the
mic'd/amplified harp is a different instrument than the accoustic harp.

An electric guitar is not the same instrument as an accoustic guitar; nor is
it the same as an accoustic-electric (an accoustic with a pickup). The
analogy is mic'ing a harp played accoustically vs cupping a mic' and harp at
the same time. The tone, tembre, and character of the sound is quite
different and distinct.

And, you don't manipulate the harmonica the same way. The hands are doing
different things. The breath control and resonance-with-reed seems different
as well.

So, can we consider the "system" of harp/mic'/amp as an instrument unto
itself
(where brand, mic'-type, amp type etc, go to different varieties of mic'd
harp, like a Strativarious (sp?) vs garden variety violin) that is distinct
from the accoustic harmonica?

If I can put words in Winslow's mouth, I'd guess that's why he suggested a
megaphone. If there's objection to electronics in an orchestral setting, why
not a megaphone?

Has anyone tried harp thru megaphone? Is it more like "cupped mic", or more
like "mic'd accoustic" harp?

Mic'l