H is for More Harmonica Masterclass with David Barrett [#387]

Episode 387, 19 June 2013

Heres part two of my interview with David Barrett (harmonicamasterclass.com, schooloftheblues.com, blueshramonica.com). I've had great feedback regarding part one, and some much appreciated feedback while part two was going to air so thank you to everyone whos shown support for what I'm doing here. For me its a labour of love - I love what I'm doing and I'm doing what I love. Anyways, enough small talk, heres the questions and songs played for this episode. And big ups to Mark who answered last week's question correctly, he wins the new CD by Rick Estrin and the Nightcats, 'One Wrong Turn.' 

Question: You have rubbed shoulders with and had opportunity to play harmonica with some of the greatest modern harmonica players like Charlie Musselwhite, Lee Oskar, Rod Piazza and Kim Wilson and with great blues musicians like Jr. Watson, Rusty Zinn, Nick Moss and John Garcia, just to name a few. What have been some highlights for you meeting and performing with many of these great artists? What valuable lessons have you learnt from your experiences with these artists? 

As a teacher and instructor of blues harmonica, what seems to be the most common mistake or aspect about your students learning that keeps reoccurring? 

In your opinion, what bugs you most about harmonica players in live band situations, whats the biggest weakness or mistake harmonica players seem to make when playing with bands? 

In short, what makes you unhappy about harmonica players? 

1. Mitch Kashmar & Pontiax with William Clarke- Horn of Plenty

2. William Clarke - Goin Steady

Q: Musical ruts are where things don’t seem to flow or where the passion seems faint and most musicians find themselves in one every now and again, what advice can you give to those in musical ruts? 

What has worked best for you when trying to get out of a musical rut? 

3. Little Walter - Rocker

Q:  How has your harmonica playing changed over the years? 

4. Flávio Guimaraes with Peter Madcat - Muddys's Ukelele

Q: What would be your greatest strength when playing harmonica, and what would be the thing you’d most like to improve? 

5. David Barrett - LeftOvers

Q: I remember hearing Jerry Portnoy saying, in reference to those seeking the best amps and mics for harmonica playing, ‘rubbish in, rubbish out.’ Would you agree? 

How important is practicing and mastering your instrument? 

And how important is having the best equipment i.e. amp & mic? 

6. Muddy Waters/Jerry Portnoy - Jerry Portnoy's Boogie

9. Which living person do you most admire? 

Flávio Guimaraes with Joe Filisko - Joe's Reggae

"On This Day In Blues History" 

Q: What do you enjoy doing the most when you are not performing, teaching or working on your music? 

If music was denied you, your other career choice would be . . . ? 

Thank you David, in closing, if you could have one super power what would it be and why?

10. David Barrett and John Garcia - Don't Fight It

11. George Harmonica Smith - Blowing The blues

12. William Clarke and the Night Owls - Hittin' Heavy

13. Mitch Kashmar and the Pontiax - Petroleum Blues

Download link for this episode: 387