Buddha, you are like the Red Barron of shooting down forum members.
Frank, Buddha and I butt heads sometimes, but I'd take him up on the offer. He actually is much nicer when he's not typing. I suspect it's because he's not a rack player and he's not happy when he doesn't have a harmonica in his mouth.
hey stick around im a lower price harp user myself ive been broke so long im surprisd im not eating dog food,well i cant done ate the dog unstead,Buddha offereing a mini-lesson is WOW totally cool,I grip about stuff like this all time,But to be honest this place is one of my favorite harp forums,It has a lot to offer,and if they stick it to ya stick em back thats part of the fun here.anyways i need a honest opion on folkmaster from someone who appreciates a good harp at the lower end.Ive wondered the very same question,as to get a folkmaster or big river the very same one,I ended up getting star-performer,but i cant hardly find em,im thinking big river now cause there offering a cool leather 7 harp case if you buy a 3 pack befor christmas you have to send the receipt in but it looks good,and im curious about the big rivers.and i heard good things from folkmaster from a friend from Australia,so your question was agood one ---------- Hobostubs
Last Edited by on Sep 18, 2010 8:49 PM
starting a thread to leave a forum is like a jumper who waits for the crowd. you're leaving because of "what harp i use"??? c'mon! this says more about your character than anything any of us fools might have said!
if you enjoyed it here before this stuff happened, i would suggest you give it a few days of total abstinence from the forum. then come back with a fresh slate. there really is stuff to be learned here.
yea i have deleted my shortcut to here 3-4 times ,but after a few weeks,im allways putting it back:=)we need to start a MBH+A kind of like AA yes im a MBH addict yes i have a problem:-) ---------- Hobostubs
Last Edited by on Sep 18, 2010 9:40 PM
The only thing that is important with the harp is the music you play with it. The price of the harp matters only through the abilities it has. IF you can play what you hear in your head of soul with it, then it's good enough. If you can't hear anything in your head of soul, no matter how expensive harp you've got, it isn't going to help you with it.
So if person is in the process of developing the musicality, I suppose low priced harps are fine - and of course there are good individual harps in the low price range as well as ban individuals in the high range (except if you buy a customized which is carefully checked and adjusted).
But there is also truth in the shu-ha-ri levels in any given art form. When you are a beginner, you just don't know. Then you begin to know and understand until at some point, if you are really really lucky, you start to not-know again.. And then you are in the level of mastery where nothing that others think about your music matters anymore. You start to make beautiful art with even the cheapest and crappiest of harps (e.g. Harley Benton's which price range isn't 15 USD but 2-3 USD).
I don't think we have that level harpists (yet) in this forum. But you'll never know.
Dont make KingoBad mad hes the biggest meanest MOFO ive seen and a Black belt at that he scares me im serious he said he comes to my neck of the woods about 4 times a year we need to get together and jam ,,Im scared he would bitch slap me,HEY YOUR IN THE WRONG KEY NEWBIE,,Ive had nightmares sence then:-) ---------- Hobostubs
Last Edited by on Sep 18, 2010 9:54 PM
apskarp, that's a new brand on me. I'll have to add that to my list of harmonicas. It looks like they might be worth getting just for the 12 harp case. I think some of the brands are just thrown together to sell cases.
@nacoran: You are exactly right! My wife's brother bought the box of 12 harps + the case. It was 35 euros the whole set. The harps are crappy, but the case is actually surprisingly good!
So if you think that the case is worth 15 euros the harps are less than 2 euros / piece. They are crappy, but certainly worth 1.8 euros / piece - if not otherwise you can use them as spare parts or gifts to children etc. At least the coverplates and screws might come handy even though the reedplate & reeds are made of cheap brass that isn't easy to work with.
Frank, The blues is the music of feeling, of direct observation and statement of what is rather than what might be, unadorned, unelaborated, of no pretension.
I quoted that from a book, but I am just trying to make you see it just does not matter how much your harps cost! The people started playing the harp because it was the 'cheapest' way to express themselves
Here's another quote from Henry Townsend who was a singer, pianist and guitarist out of St Louis in the 1920's, when they knew what poverty was:
'It really is this to me: it's a relief for pressure. In most cases now it can be a happy song, it's a relieve of pressure. We all have had something in mind and we didn't want to talk about it to anybody, but the burden was real heavy until you could make some kinda sound about it, you could express yourself to somebody, sort of lighten the thing up'
So lighten up buddy and enjoy the forum for what it is
@TNFrank: If you hadn't started this thread, I would have let sleeping dogs lie, since I sympathize with your cause. But since you've flipped us the finger so soon after showing up here--and since you're flat wrong about us all being harp snobs--I'll just say: I think it's funny that your first response after experiencing the slightest problem here was to stroll out of this bar, down the block, and into your other favorite bar.
I'm talking about the thread you started at Harmony Central yesterday morning entitled "Harp Snobs. Wow."
You'll notice that your diss of Buddha there received some support, but also some pushback. (You'll also notice that he has extended the hand of fellowship in this thread. I'm not sure he would have done that if he realized you were ratting him out in another forum, but then again: we're a more complex bunch of harp maniacs that you've given us credit for.)
Every forum has its quirks. You came to this forum filled with energy and opinions. That's good. We welcome that. This doesn't mean, however, that we're about nothing but love. That's why I'm here, with my big whip, prepared to flog people who step out of line.
You didn't give this place a fair shot. But I do hope that Harmony Central works out for you, and provides the unconditional love that we were apparently unable to provide quickly enough here to suit your taste.
Last Edited by on Sep 19, 2010 4:26 AM
It is a shame when someone feels it necessary to withdraw their contributions form the forum. I've done it myself.
I Suppose it's worth bearing in mind that egos and pride and just the sheer inadequacy of communication via QWERTY keyboards is going to lead to occasional - if not frequent - squabbling on here. It just seems to be the way that people communicate all over the www, i.e. when they are physically separated.
I've decided to take it on the chin. I just don't care anymore what people say to me on here, or however rudely they may say it.
It's still worth sticking around 'cos you will get some absolute little gems in the some of the posts.
Both waltertore or BBQBob contribute suberb anecdotal or technical tidbits, and there are many others who contribute in the same way.
Just filter out any clash of egos or pride; that little demon is in me, you and all the rest of us on here.
Stick around. I doubt that anyone on here wishes you any ill will. ---------- YouTube SlimHarpMick
@TNFrank: I don't understand why you want to pack up your bat and ball and go home. Yesterday, you had a question about key selection for a 7 harp set and i gave you a detailed objective explanation of why an Eb is more practical to carry than an E. Then you asked for a plain English explanation of "Dorian" and I gave you a basic plain English explanation of what modes are and examples of the Greek names players use to refer to them.
I also referred you to a chart of scale tabs illustrating common breath patterns for multiple position playing I posted on my user profile which, quite frankly, is a learning aid you won't find in ANY published instructional material because i figured it out on my own and have never seen anything like it published anywhere.
Everyone can't be expected to agree about everything, and the dialog on MBH wouldn't be of much value or interest if they did. In a short time, you've put up a large number of posts many of which contain more running commentary than questions, so, yeah, you are bound to get a few ill considered comments in response here and there. Different people have different opinions that they express--that's why it's called a forum. But, on the whole, I don't see why you think you've got any objective justification for dissing MBH the way you have. I really don't believe you've got anything to legitimately be complaining about.
Last Edited by on Sep 19, 2010 4:53 AM
Yeah, took me a bit by surprise. There are one or two harp snobs around, but also TNF needs to realise that in the UK you just can't get a harp for less than 30$ (that's about how much a Big River costs here).
On the other hand, even the snobs can be justified. It's one thing to say a Ferrari is better than a Ford Escort, but to say a 50$ harp is better than a 25$ one isn't really rubbing anyone's nose in their poverty.
TNF's beginner's impatience showed in other ways - he asked a very basic question about My Name is Earl but gave no indication that he was grateful for the answer. On the other hand, if modes scared him away, he has my complete sympathy, lol! .... OK, now I've looked at the other forum. It's clear TNF's only beef is Chris. It's not up to me to draw any conclusions from that. ---------- Andrew, gentleman of leisure, noodler extraordinaire.
Last Edited by on Sep 19, 2010 5:26 AM
@TNFrank - Just read the garbage you wrote about us at harmony-central.com and I was halfway signing up, so I could put up a link to the threads here, pleading you to stay and show those people there that there are plenty people here who care and want you to stay ...... but then I decided ...that you're not worth it... You just come walking in here , put up more than 140 comments/questions and whatever in a 2 week time span with lots of people trying to help you out with all kinds of advice on all kinds of subjects... Frankly (pun intended) most of that stuff you ask can be found in the archive here or .... can you spell "GOOGLE?" Jeez I'm pissed... I wasn't going to be sucked in these kind of situations anymore.... but now I'm burning up here because of a moron who gets pi$$ed because somebody gives an honest to god opinion.... So Frank.. you're OK with coughing up 200 bucks for a low quality guitar but not with 30$ for a good quality harp!? And if ONE person tells you, you should get a pro harp, we are all snobs? Sorry Frank, but if that's how you portrait us at other forums, you are worse than a snob..... you're even worse than a selfish snob....
@ Adam and forum members.... sorry, but if I had to get this out of my system.... sorry...... ---------- DutchBones Tube
FWIW Frank and this is by no means any dish on you whatsoever but to put this issue in a different perspective; A Tradesman uses good quality tools,whether it may be powertools,paintbrushes,etc.for one reason and one reason only and thats because it makes his/her job easier in the long run.As the saying goes you get what you pay for.I have been playing since 74 when MBs,BHs,were $3.50 a pop,those were the days,anyway I know harp prices have gotten a little crazy these days but I,d suggest trying a Sp 20 one of these days and you will notice a big difference.I havn,t tried the F masters but way back when tried the H.metals,and a friend gave me a Blues band(ex-friend after that gift,only kidding) and I can honestly say that they will not help you progress as much as a harp for twice the $.I will say though that a friend did buy a set of S.bluesmasters and for a beginner level they aren,t too bad.As for your leaving I realize some folks can get a little obnoxious here but as another saying goes opinions are like a-holes everybody has one,but on the other hand you asked and they voiced they,re opinions,They also have been playing the instrument for alot longer than yourself so whether you wanted to take they,re advise thats your choice,but I wouldn,t put the entire forum down because of a couple of folks comments.this forum has alot to offer especially if your just starting out.If I were you I,d check in from time to time just to lurk and if you ever do get the $ to buy a better harp check in and give us your honest opinion.
Just stay a lurker. I had a student once he had better harmonicas than me. Custom Frank Huang Chromatics actually two. The were metal brass with a finish of Chrome plate one four octaves and on three. Franks used pre world war two plates and special valves.Frank also made him some metal diatonics. This was over twenty years ago before the custom boom.
He couldn't play for sh@#. He just didn't practice.
I wouldn't pass on the Buddha lesson. When I heard him play the head to Freedom Jazz Dance I realized most of us, when it comes to Diatonic harmonica, may not be same species that he is. LOL ----------
How you doin'
Last Edited by on Sep 19, 2010 6:53 AM
simon&garfunkels song a man hears what he wants to hear and disregards the rest-TnFrank asks for suggestions but did not get much support on playing cheap harps-there were many suggestions that less is better than buying many harps so you have all the keys-you cannot expect to get support from this forum if they dont agree with your decisions
I thought you got pretty good (and friendly) advise for the most part. In fact, because of your questions regarding cheaper harps, my next order from RR will include a Folkmaster, just to see if it will make me a good travel harp in the glove compartment.
Did you see OldGrey's video AND TAB of the "Work Song" that was posted here yesterday? That's worth the price of admission right there!
You keep saying you will give him a free lesson but dont specify what you will be teaching him. :)
That might be dangerous! LOL
I dont really know you except for reading threads on this forum and viewing youtube vidoes. New members that dont know you can definitely be rubbed as you could at times come across abrasive but I know you have a kind heart!
@TNFRANK Just my advise. If/when you leave you will be forgotten in 30 minutes time. A better thing to do is to try and understand and find the root cause of what started the conflict and fix it. Bailing is not the right answer when things do not go your way in any situation in life. 528hemi
get a huang or folkmaster check the out some posts on harp tweaking,break out a tool box,and you can make a cheap harp play alot better,My favorite harp for awhile was a star performer that i set up,from what i learned from here. ---------- Hobostubs
You've been offered a full one hour lesson from one of the best harmonica players in the world. In $$$ that's worth more than all the harps you have already put together - seriously - I wish I could afford one. Make your peace with Buddha - he knows what he's talking about. Take him up on the lesson (and use your harpmaster or Golden Melody)
Lurk a while and get a feel for the forum, who's who, personalities etc... You will not find a more active forum with as many experienced players out there. There are lots of opinions here. Take what you want from who you want, but be prepared to listen to things you might not want to hear. Sometimes they need saying.
Folkmasters are OK, I have one - I would always choose one of my other harp over it though (Lee Oskars and Golden Melodies)
I've already said it before, you have 2 good quality harps now. You also have enough cheapo ones to jam along to the radio. If money is really that tight, then stop wasting it on harps that you'll regret buying once you've mastered the basics.
This isn't snobbery, it is the voice of experienced players all telling you the same thing.
Opinionated bunch that we are, this place is also very forgiving. You will be welcome here if you choose to stay.
Last Edited by on Sep 19, 2010 7:49 AM
@TNFrank: Ok, if the issue is economics, keep in mind you'll wind up spending less $ if you buy harps that don't wear out quickly. In my experience Suzukis are the most durable harps I've ever played. FWIW.
Buddha Ya a ^&%$#@ and if i have to &*^%$# one more time i will *&^%$# ok so get it *&^%$# no mister nice guy next time *^%$#^&%$#@????? Right mate!!!! ---------- When is my 1st lesson Bro:)
@TNFrank There are a million books out there on effective speaking, but very few on effective listening. Everyone should have one. You learn by listening, pick out the parts that work for you, practice them, msster them, then you can contribute
I started off playing Big Rivers, but I broke a lot of 4 and 5 draw reeds. I started reading the Forums a few years ago and learned how to improve the Harps, why I was breaking reeds, how to tune, and customize, and I practiced until I could make my harps do what I wanted them to do. I respect everyone on this Forum, and all the others that have shared their knowledge with me and othere, Including Adam, Buddah, Joe Spiers, Richard Sleigh, Jason Ricci, Rick Epping, and others too numerous to mention. Do they have their faults? Yes, and so do I, and you. So what, they are human. Personally, I only post when I have something to contribute, I read everything twice or more before I push the button, and until this posting I have never posted anything that is controversial, just factual.
You have two choices. Leave the forum and figure out all this stuff for yourself. You will be the loser with this method. Or listen, learn, and appreciate those that share. Ask your questions, and pick out the answers that work for you. Then one day you will be the expert
@TnFrank stay with us now you know what are up against-and dont ask for advice for awhile just take it all in stride-I have been on this forum for 6 months and gained a wealth of information
TNFrank....don't worry about it..as a fellow Tennessean who has been around here 8 or 9 months I learned early not to let your feelings get hurt here or take people too seriously. When ya think about it..why the hell would anyone let someone in cyberspace, whom they do not even know, affect their emotions in a negative way?
Lots of politics and opinions here and to be honest replys sometimes depends on who makes the post. Be proud some of the big guns felt you worthy of responses.
I could say I just found a great home movie at a yard sale with Sonny Terry, Little Walter, and Sonny Boy sitting around jamming and talking harp and some would never respond because they hold a grudge, don't like my posts, don't like my attitude, don't like that I'm heavy into overbends,etc,,etc,, whatever...
Someone else could post that they sneezed into their harp and got a cool effect and get 100 posts on it.
Who cares. If someone does not agree with or care for another it is their problem. Life is too short.
I came here to learn and I have ...about harmonicas, about playing, about blues history, about what does not belong here, about interaction between people, and I have learned a ton about myself.
By far, the most important thing I have learned from this forum is that lip pursing is truly the way to go.
@TNFrank: Whether you are serious about harmonica or just casually interested, you are being foolish to pass up a free lesson with a player of Buddha's caliber who, btw, has very effective, refined and gentle teaching skills.
Also, from a personal point of view I just don't get these Bret Farvre like posts from people who publicly announce that they are leaving. It seems artificial. I mean, what do those Nike commercials say? Just do it.
frank you should swallow your pride a little and take the lesson,if not you will regret it in the future,he can teach you to OB in that lesson if you want and some people spend years trying to firgure out the trick,And dont say well im a guitar player thats my main instrument half of us here's main instrument is the guitar,but i dont know anyone that would turn down a hours lesson from Buddha. ---------- Hobostubs
"I could say I just found a great home movie at a yard sale with Sonny Terry, Little Walter, and Sonny Boy sitting around jamming and talking harp and some would never respond...
Someone else could post that they sneezed into their harp and got a cool effect and get 100 posts on it."
Yeah, I've often been puzzled by this on forums. You can say something really important and not get one response. Another time you can say something totally throwaway and it starts a long conversation. ---------- Andrew, gentleman of leisure, noodler extraordinaire.
I'm not happy. It bugs the crap out of me, when a person writes a long post and then pretty much deletes the entire thing. It allows future readers to take things completely out of context.
It's especially misleading to the people that came here from other forums, because of the links you posted.
Stay or go, but don't create a scene and announce you are leaving only to change your mind and try to clean it up by modifying your original post and finishing up with "the Titans are due."
It allows people to completely misunderstand all of the subsequent responses because the original message placing those responses into context is gone making the original poster look like the poor victim.
Last Edited by on Sep 19, 2010 10:11 AM
"Yeah, I've often been puzzled by this on forums. You can say something really important and not get one response. Another time you can say something totally throwaway and it starts a long conversation."
It's funny. It can depend on the time of the day you post it. The weekends are actually kind of dead. There seems to be some critical mass issue too. Once a thread gets a certain number of posts it's sure to get more. Posters who come back and ask follow up questions to the responses get more responses. Embeding videos or audio seems to get a lot more hits than just posting a link.
There are also several diligent members who seem to try to catch any post that is about to fall off the front page without at least one response. The only posts that I see fall off the front page without comment are ones asking specifically if people are going to be at a show and I think that's just because it's such a specific question. You either are or you aren't.
And of course there are certain topics that get tons of hits, and certain topics that tend to draw specific members to the thread. There is a thesis worth of anthropological data lurking in internet forums.
To be honest, I think you've said a lot of things that are very agressive without actually considering them first. This gets people upset. I'm actually suprised that more people aren't up in arms about some of the blatanty offensive things you said on the AGF forum, but it's probably lucky for you that most people here have thick skin. Take a step back, and think about what you're saying before you post it. You'll have a much happier time here.
