Jam sessions in the Arabian Gulf

While working on a case in the Middle East met a Arabian official who when searching my bag found my 10/40 chromatic. He then produced his own harmonica a sort of 24 hole chromatic harmonica where each hole only plays a blow or draw note not both. He invited me to join some friends going fishing from a dhow as they all play musical instruments. I confess, just could not get my head around Arabian music but my efforts caused much amusement. There were 9 of us with one playing a Jirba a sort of bagpipes; another a Marwas drum a couple of guys playing Neys a sort of Arabian flute and my friend’s harmonica. There were others but didn’t get a chance to talk to them. I was given a CD to practice with but suspect it will be a lost cause. Did give them a taste of Swinging Shepherd Blues and a couple of sea shanties just to hold my own. Interesting day and the fishing was good as well Jay1

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I love Arabic music, I’ve got quite a collection I can do middle eastern scales on guitar but I wouldn’t have the first clue on a Diatonic harp. The Chromatic is coming along, I may have more chance with that in the future, I’m not much of a fisherman, but just being on a dhow sounds fantastic. I did a spot of training in the Middle East and a bit of Peace keeping for the UN. I loved my time there and the people I met were fantastic. I even met a few nomad tribesmen, again fantastic people very respectful and hospitable.

Glad you’re getting on with the chrom. I also like Arabic music but can’t jam to it especially having just caught a large Barracuda with it flapping around my feet. :grin: Moving on to another part of Middle East first thing tomorrow on contract negotiations and told will not be able to use Internet and will have a bodyguard escort at all times :shushing_face: wonder if they’ll let me play harmonica in the evenings? Anticipate won’t be on the forum until back to UK around the 12th at earliest Inshallah Jay1

Good luck mate. Be vigilant.