I was doing my lesson today with Todd, when suddenly I got a friend request from Terry McMillan’s daughter, Sara. I had a great chat with her. She was so happy to hear that I was influenced by her dad and that I’m going places as a harmonica player. It was so cool getting to meet her for the first time. The thing that I love about the harmonica is that you get all of these social connections just from people you’re friends with or from somebody having a relative or friend who plays as well. It’s like we’re all one interconnected family.
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When i started the harp a bit less than two years ago I knew absolutely nothing about the harp or harp players. I live outside a town of about 20,000 and could not find a harp player or instructor on the internet. I did not think there was a harp near within 75 miles of my house. I went to listen to a local band and ask the singer if he knew any. I gave me the number of a player, who is close. I met a few more after that. All were extremely helpful.
I realize a serious player does not want to spend his jam time with a beginner any more than a good baseball player wants to play with a rookie. just the way it is.
That being said I think I am at the point practicing with a purpose and always tackling a more difficult song each time is the way to improve to the point I an really hold my own. Even then I have no interest in a band, etc. I just love to play and over time improve.
I plan to go to SPAH in San Antonio to attend the workshops and ask many questions about the harp but not play much. Its about the people and passion.
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Your Lucky to get to SPAH I would love to go. I missed a great festival last year mainly because it was poorly advertised and didn’t know it was on. And it was literally up the road. Frustrating.
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It’s great when you get that connection. I get a thrill every time I get to connect with Corky Siegal on here. If not for him I could’ve ended up playing flute or oboe or something
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Actually at SPAH you should play as much as possible! You get the chance to jam next to best players in the world. Get way out of your comfort zone: you’ll be glad you did. Its a great experience. The classes and workshops are great, but the jams are where real growth happens.
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