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Dirty-South Blues Harp forum: wail on! >
OT: Let's get to know more about each other
OT: Let's get to know more about each other
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Buddha
431 posts
May 16, 2009
12:34 PM
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What do you do for a living? Other hobbies or Interests eetc?
For me, I play music, build harmonicas and train dogs. Prior to that I was a project manager for Wells Fargo. Prior to that, I started and ran an information architecture company. Prior to that, I was a software engineer, prior to that I was in Medical School. I have a degree in Genetics.
Currently, I build harps, play harp and train protection dogs. I train dogs for security, personal protection and protection sports. I have six dogs, two pugs, three rottweilers and a belgian malinois.
Other things I do, cook, paint and draw.
Been married for 18 years (in june)
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MrVerylongusername
311 posts
May 16, 2009
12:45 PM
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Good thread idea!
I have a degree in Biology and postgrad teaching qualification, but I wouldn't go back to teaching for love nor money.
I currently work for a learning disability charity, making information easy to understand for people with poor literacy skills. It's multimedia work - photography, video editing, DTP and accessible web design.
Married with two kids under 5. Not much time for much else at the mo.
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scstrickland
68 posts
May 16, 2009
1:02 PM
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I'm a Elementary art teacher of 12 years. In SE Virginia.
It's not for everybody MrVery. I, however, love it! I actually look forward to going to work. Right now we are preparing for our state tests to comply with No Child Left Behind then a well earned summer break.
My Interests, besides harmonica, are:
Rock climbing. I will spend most of the summer climbing the cliffs along New River Gorge in WV.
I also enjoy camping. I'll be living in a tent in WV most of the summer
Cooking. I'm with you Grillslinger. I grill every day in the summer rain or shine. I also love dutch oven cooking.
I am and avid runner. Not as much as Adam, but I put in about 20-25 miles a week
No kids but I have a 7 year old Golden Retriever
Been Married 10 years to my best friend who as luck would have it is learning to play guitar.
Life is good for me.
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Patrick Barker
287 posts
May 16, 2009
1:08 PM
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I'm 17 and I'm a full time student (it's one of the most hectic jobs out there and I don't even get paid).
I enjoy learning about how stuff works and am fascinated by anything that flies and anything related to flight (I messed around with RC airplanes for a while and have a boomerang that I used to throw around before I discovered harmonica).
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"Without music, life would be a mistake" -Nietzsche
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ortrigger
18 posts
May 16, 2009
1:31 PM
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I'm 19, did the student thing for about a year. Now, I'm preparing to serve a mission for my church and playing music. I've also started dabbling in mountain biking.
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Beginning harpist and possibly the only LDS person on this forum. :P
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Maltheduke
3 posts
May 16, 2009
2:05 PM
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I own a pub, www.dukeofalbany.co.uk A locals bar in downtown sunny Weymouth with a very average resident harp player !
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jonsparrow
304 posts
May 16, 2009
2:06 PM
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well i explained most of this when i joined not to long ago but ill spiff it up a little more detailed an less depressing...
i have a stress/panic disorder. i do absolutely nothing but play harp, watch movies, an play video games. i have a little recording studio i put together when i was actually working. all nice equitment. i also play guitar, piano, didgeridoo, etc... but i only play harp now. after highschool i worked for a year, then i went to collage for a week then droped out. worked for anouther year then when to lincoln tech, an graduated in automotive technology. work in some shops for awhile including NISSAN. after awhile i decided i hate working on other peoples cars so i quit. started to focus more on my music again. went back to collage. took a bunch of music courses, music theory, blues an jazz history, etc... after two semesters they told me i have to take math an english an stuff if i wanted to continue. i droped out. had a few delivery jobs sense, now im just bummin it playin harp. been playing sense january about. im also big into auto racing although i havnt done it in a long time sense i dont work. i have an extreamly fast an rare 97 NISSAN 240SX with a motor imported from japan. turbo pushin 14.5 lbs of boost. if was an still am big into drifting. its a natural born talent i have. i dont brag about things but im realy good at it. but lack of funds leave my car sitting in the driveway. i take her out sometimes but normally i just borrow my moms van cause i dont even have money for gas. oh i was also into glass blowing forawhile but again lack of funds ended that. so i sadly sold all my equitment. used the money to get an amp, mic, some harps, some custom harps, case, pedal, nice mic cable, jason ricci show, mister satans apprentice, an i got about $60 left. that im saving to go to the satan an adam show. after that ill be poor again. need to find me a sugar mama. or get good enough to play on the street. i know a guitarist thats simply amazing that allready does it, so i could play with him.
TO BE CONTINUED...
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nacoran
10 posts
May 16, 2009
2:41 PM
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jonsparrow- I have a song about a sugar mama (actually called Cinderella Momma), and drive a 87' Nissan 200SX (because I to am poor!) Panic disorders suck. The meds that treat it either don't work or leave you spacey.
I do some volunteer work, but I've had a hard time in the work force myself. Given the choice of panicked or spacey, I've chosen spacey.
As for me, I'm hugely in debt with student loans and only a small fixed income. Fortunately, harmonica is a relatively cheap instrument to play, but I'm starting to get to the point where I can hear the difference between the cheap harps and the more expensive ones.
I have a couple friends I record with, but we're not real active. I picked up the harp because I have chronic tendentious problems in my wrists that keep me from being able to practice enough to get good at any instruments like guitar or keyboard. Really I just want something I can record to sound good with my singing, which I really only do because I love writing lyrics.
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jonsparrow
305 posts
May 16, 2009
2:51 PM
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my friend has a 200SX with a ca18det motor in it. its badass.
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djm3801
121 posts
May 16, 2009
3:04 PM
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Good idea.
I am 61 years old. From NJ originally. Started Prudential Insurance Co out of high school in 1965 as a Computer operator as I passed some special tests. Since one knew what they were in 1965 it was a pretty lofty job for an 18 year old. Then I got drafted in 1966 and spent 2 years in the army, the last stationed in Bangkok where I met wife #1. Went back to work in Pru when I got out in 1968 and now there were Mainframes and more money. Wife #1 went back in 1970. Met wife #2, a hellcat. Met Wife #3 in 1976. Kept that one as I got smart.
Went to AT&T in 1984 and worked there in IT data center and project management and eventually led some software development and then an IT architecture district. Moved to Pennsylvania in 1987 and never looked back but work in NJ for the bucks. Got whacked in 2003 - be careful about moving up the corporate ladder. Did real estate for 2 years cause I thought it would be fun and went back into corporate world before I killed an a-hole client.
Now work as Process analyst and do some databasing for major bank - thanks for the TARP money, I got no pay raise - And am loving it. Hobbies - too many - have been flying, woodworking, cooking, stained glass, trapshooting - was hooked on that big time for 2 years and won a few things. Can do anything that a house or car or computer needs done. Been hooked on harp since April last year cause there is nothing of worth on TV, I am sick of the internet, and blues harp moves me in the same way Jazz Sax (David Sanborn is a god to me) does but is a lot more accessible. Like Delta Frosts, SP20's, Seydel Soloist pros. Going to see Adam in Philly.
Got two dachshunds. Down from 4. Wife is a dog lover. Probably why she married me. Does not get the harp thing but tolerates it.
That's me, but I am willing to change that statement for money.
Dan M
Last Edited by on May 16, 2009 3:27 PM
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Zhin
306 posts
May 16, 2009
6:56 PM
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>What do you do for a living? Other hobbies or Interests eetc?
I catch 5 feet long man eating lizards and sell them to the local butchery which will make them into delicious "pork" frankfurters. :)
I cook on my spare time when I can.
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http://www.youtube.com/harmonicazhin
Last Edited by on Sep 01, 2009 7:55 AM
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Jim Rumbaugh
44 posts
May 16, 2009
7:24 PM
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Born 1952. At age 11 started clarinet. at age 18 started bass guitar. Married 1973. Did TV repair until 1975, when I became an optician. I still make eyeglasses today, same place. Self taught database programing that I use at work ( Visual Fox Pro and SQL ) Still play bass about once a month with the same band, after 30 years. Meet with some folks once a week or more at our harmonica club (www.theharmonicaclub.com) The wife runs a small retail and growing greenhouse and landscaping business, where I pitch in.
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danielbs
44 posts
May 16, 2009
10:10 PM
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Great thread...
I'm Daniel, 31 in June. I live in Jerusalem, Israel. I used to be a motorcycle mechanic up until 2006 when i decided the money isn't that good, so i started learning in university. I study law at the hebrew university.
I started playing harmonica about a year ago, been playing on and off because of my exams..
Last week i received in the mail my Practice chanter, and hopefully i'll play the bagpipes in a couple of years or so.. :-)
I have two casts and a Labrador (which i got last week-end).
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http://www.youtube.com/user/Dantheharpman
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jbone
75 posts
May 16, 2009
11:24 PM
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well i was born in '55. laast of 6 kids, dad passed when i was 4 years old. mom raised us herself for several years and then remarried. life was not easy but we got by. got my first harp at 16 but i was in my 30's before i really got determined to learn what can be done with one, and in my 40's before i actually began to play at a higher level.
i have been a jack of many and master of no trades. from dishwasher and janitor thru manufacturing, industrial sewing machine rebuild, subcontracting home repairs, concrete, roofing,paint and panel, sheetrock, had a stint as a salesman- when it was good it was great but it was bad way too often! i do delivery and pickup for a heat and air company and help run the warehouse and shop also. some years ago, i put the harps and music avocation away for 16 months when i was working 16-20 hours a day trying to start a business. which failed, and i had missed a lot of music opportunities in that time. i vowed then to always do music, my way, as often as possible, until i couldn't do it any more. i have gotten to work with some very good local musicians and bands both in texas and here in arkansas.
did i mention i have also been a wanderer for a part of my life? i rode my thumb from coast to coast and north and south, logged maybe 30k miles hitch hiking in the 70's.
i was a late bloomer with harp and vocal wise. i began in earnest at 37, an age when a lot of guys are already burned out on the whole idea. back then i was a fair player and took up vocals because there was a need in the band i was with at the time. what i didn't have in skill i made up for with enthusiasm and volume. yes, i was one of those! i have changed dramatically in recent years.
after many adventures with bands and a few duo partners, i was pretty burned out and disgusted with the whole thing. i isolated at home here and my wife was afraid i'd just give up music entirely, so dhe went out and bought a guitar and after a 40- year break, took up music again. that was a few years ago, and she struggled with guitar and later vocals for a time before she began growing by leaps and bounds. we've had a blues/roots duo for most of 3 years now and we love every minute of it! almost 2 years ago we recorded out first cd. we're working toward # 2 now. we have gigged locally and across the state here and there, and in the past year or so have begun playing in clarksdale mississippi every chance we get. we play the farmers market locally and plan to visit a few more that are planned next year, also we like street corners here and there and cafe gigs, but we have played a couple of fairly big joints also. she improves almost every week on both guitar and vocals, and we both write material that becomes original songs.
we are fishing buddies when there's time. i could tell some fish stories but another time...
we put our first garden in this year. i am looking at so much weeding! i am obsessed with hot peppers and have several really deadly varieties sprouted and ready to plant.
i love grilling with hickory.
early this year wife let me buy a '95 miata, a car i've been in love with for many years now. it's a rolling project but i'm glad we got it. my personal midlife crisis!
i married into being a grandpa, which is precious and wonderful. i have hopes that one day i can begin passing along some harp knowledge to one of the tykes. most are age 5 or less right now.
i play LO's and bushman delta frost mostly. also i have a hering chromatic or 2 around that i dig a lot. considering trying out marine band again after many years of not liking them at all. i'd love to try a seydel when permits.
we use matching silvertone 1482 amps in the duo, and a small fender p.a. and remember the economic stimulus thing last year? mine turned into a replica '59 bassman amp! which i'm still experimenting with to get the best sound from, but it's a dream come true. i like a crystal mic or a cm powered mic for harp. i have a shure 545s i get out sometimes and just recently picked up a new/old stock e-v m43u military mic i am planning to have modded soon.
22 years ago i was freed from addiction to drugs and alcohol, and have been clean ever since. a few years after that is when i really began to learn about blues and playing harp and singing. prior to that i just could not assimilate information, or bring myself to practice or even ask questions. stubborn pride i guess.
these days i try to live every day to its fullest. and life is certainly full! at least once a week wife and i either play out or work on stuff here at home. this is the most structured my life has ever been.
oh, we have 2 cats, outdoor models, one a calico and one an orange roughneck. both are spoiled rotten but still manage to bring down a bird or squirrel occasionally.
life is good.
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Blackbird
84 posts
May 17, 2009
12:20 AM
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My name is Dan. I'm 43 at this writing. I've been doing technical/computer work of one form or another for the past 13 years after being bit by the computer bug (and learning to type) in college. I'm fairly well burnt out on the industry, but I don't know what else I would do or could do for a career change that would pay the rent and keep me fed and well stocked in harmonicas.
I've been musically active and interested in music all my life. I started with guitar around 10 years old (I wanted to be Ace Frehley) only because my parents wouldn't buy me drums (I wanted to be Peter Criss) and did a short stint with the viola in 4th grade, then finally got to drums in the orchestra in 5th grade. Played them actively until the early 90's when I had a car accident and a change of residence from house to appartments. I still tinker with a guitar, but have really found interest in the harmonica.
Aside from absorbing music like a sponge, I also photograph live music, art models, infrared film before it was discontinued, and have made a few bucks along the way.
Lately, I've been teaching myself to cook, and have joined a local boxing club for some fitness and health.
That's me in a nutshell. Met Snakes and Oldwailer after an afternoon of informal jamming, and they are two cool cats.
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snakes
226 posts
May 17, 2009
12:52 AM
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Thanks Blackbird we gotta get together and jam again with Oldwailer. Well I am over 50 yrs. old and picked up the harmonica to replace baseball (yes I know about Stan Musial). I really miss baseball... Played for 18 yrs. in the local hardball league on several teams. My adult life has been very inundated with sports activities. I think I did that as a form of response from a less than idyllic childhood. Sports are over due tro orthopedic concerns so I needed a new social outlet as well as something to challenge me daily (did I mention I used to be a bit of a gym rat for about 30 yrs.?). I actually hoped to get back into music as I had experience while young with singing, woodwinds, and bass guitar. What I thought would turn out to be a complementary element to being able to get back into singing has now solicited my passionate loyalty. I am a little lazy and need to practice more and more structured.
I work about an hour and a half drive from my house (lets not go there - roots) as an application analyst for a medical center in Seattle. Before that I spent about 21 yrs. in the paper converting industry. I really am grateful that I have stumbled upon such a humble yet challenging instrument and hope that someday someone actually wants me in their band.
I have a wife of 24 yrs. (this year), a daughter, a son, two cats, and three of the coolest dogs you ever saw.
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harmonicanick
284 posts
May 17, 2009
1:54 AM
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Good to meet you lot, on this very interesting new thread.
I am 58 years old from UK, and was employed until March 08 as a commercial manager for a paper recycling company. I was made redundant then, and took early retirement, and it was the best thing that could have happened to me.
I was in my first band as a drummer in 1966 at boarding school. Turned on and dropped out in 1969, played drums with a folk/rock band called Stoneflower and lived in a hippy commune. Travelled, on the thumb, all over..and married a French girl in the 70's, been together ever since.
Been playing harmonica since the 60's as it was easy to travel. Have been in bands on and off most of my life and currently enjoying the life of leisure in Bristol Uk and have made new friends by going to local jams and open mics. Current band called 'Blues Devilz'
I have a son 31 and daughter 29 and grandaughter 9 who calls me harmonica boy!
Other interests: looking after me old Mum,cooking (inside because its raining all the time) walking in the mountains of Scotland and drinking single malt whiskey, world history, current affairs, computer games, wine, music above all, of any sort, except rap.
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bluesnut
72 posts
May 17, 2009
2:56 AM
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I'm 48
Lived in Hawaii all my life
Electrical contractor
wife 2 kids boy and a girl
Don't drink don't smoke what do I do? Family first,I surf, play harp and guitar that's all and it's enough to keep me busy
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Damon
3 posts
May 17, 2009
2:56 AM
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My names Damon, I'm 19.
Recently dropped out of a Astrophysics degree (1st year) to pursue my dreams of being a musician.
I play harmonica, guitar, washboard and (try to) sing.
I will be starting a 2 year music foundation course this year.
Apart from my music, I spend time with my girlfriend and lurk on harmonica forums!
Before I started to play harmonica 2 or so years ago (which started my music craze), I used to be into drawing and macromedia flash, I made a couple of games (link to one:http://www.newgrounds.com/portal/view/281187).
I wish i'd carried this on so much but I just got lazy. Now I can't remember much about how to do it :(. Maybe I'll get back into it one day I hope.
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Ant138
81 posts
May 17, 2009
4:04 AM
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My name is Anthony im 31yrs old and i live in North Wales U.K. Im a Learning And Development officer for the Civil Service (Jobcentreplus). Im married with no children but ive got two cats, Milo and Binks. I love Punk rock and the blues. Ive been playing harp for about 3yrs and often jam with a mate who plays guitar(were always looking out for a singer,anyone in the Bangor area interested please get in touch).
Last Edited by on May 17, 2009 4:12 AM
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oda
100 posts
May 17, 2009
4:45 AM
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Hi, I'm Oda. You may remember me from such threads as "New youtube channels" and various others.
I enjoy long walks across the beach, I don't mind my hand being held, and I am usually the guy people go to in order to vent. I don't know why that is.
I'm 20. Lived most of me life in Canada but now I'm in Kuwait and I'm enjoying getting to know my roots.
I do freelance webdesign/coding as well as 3d Modeling and animation to make some cash (and for fun) I'm going to continue my English BA when I get back to Canada.
Fun Fact: I'm not ticklish.
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MindApe
17 posts
May 17, 2009
12:30 PM
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Howdy! I'm 22, and live in Ottawa, Canada. I just graduated a 4 year Honours degree in Classics and Humanities. I love to read good books, and I love reading books in the original languages (Latin, Greek, German, French, more coming!).
Hopefully I'll be in London Ontario next year studying Library Science and Information Studies on a govt scholarship-but I really have no definite plans for a career.
I love all types of music, but especially classical and blues! I never really played an instrument till I started harp when my sister got me one for xmas 08. I've taken to it rather well. I play every day, and am very happy with my progress.
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oda
101 posts
May 17, 2009
1:03 PM
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MindApe, let's keep in touch. I've lived in Ottawa for a while. I'm also planning to move to either London or Niagra for uni -- email me; odalanizi(at)gmail.com
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Leanground
56 posts
May 17, 2009
1:04 PM
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I'm Mark Hayden,52 married twenty eight years blessed with two sons in college.
I'm a Copley Master(Copley Society of Boston) fine artist.My paintings can be seen at my facebook site,including a series on harp masters
I pick up the harp at 48 and have been playing every day since.
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tookatooka
224 posts
May 17, 2009
2:10 PM
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Hi Leanground (Mark). How about a link to your facebook site?
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When I'm not blowing, I'm drawing.
Last Edited by on May 17, 2009 2:10 PM
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Luiz
35 posts
May 17, 2009
2:12 PM
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Lots of computer guys here, uh?!
Well, I am one more: I am 22, completed my bachelor in Computer Science last year and moved from Brazil to Estonia to work with software and web development, mainly using Java.
I have many hobbies, which for lack of time I mostly don't practice anymore, like drawing and practicing martial arts.
I always wanted to learn how to play the harmonica I can't really explain why, then finally last year I decided to start it and now that's what I do most of time when I am not working/hanging out with friends. And when I am not playing I am always looking forward for it... what kind of addiction is this?!
Last Edited by on May 17, 2009 2:14 PM
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scstrickland
69 posts
May 17, 2009
2:12 PM
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Lots of Mark Haydens on Facebook. how about a link, I'd love to see your art.
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Leanground
57 posts
May 17, 2009
2:56 PM
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http://www.facebook.com/home.php?filter=app_2309869772#/album.php?aid=2017862&id=1252964387
I hope this links directly to my paintings...I'm bad at this technology
MH
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mickil
196 posts
May 17, 2009
7:07 PM
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Age 46, BA (Hons) Mus - whatever that means. Former Macdonalds worker (twice), street bum (thrice), roofer, piano teacher, school teacher (argh - make me a prison guard any day), civil servant, gardener/labourer, and probably a load of other stuff I can't remember right now.
Loves Blues (some), classical music (some). Doesn't quite get jazz.
Hates political correctness, and longs to go back to a world where you can say what you actually think and smoke in a bar with other consenting adults and pay for your forthcoming illness in tax - oops, I forgot, we already do in the UK.
Current career plans: none. When my savings run low, I'll panic and question further the need to import yet more foreign labour.
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'If it sounds GOOD to you, it's bitchen; if it sounds BAD to YOU, it's shitty' - Frank Zappa
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GamblersHand
24 posts
May 18, 2009
1:43 AM
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Me, I'm some of that foreign labour Mikil mentioned!
I'm a New Zealander, 37, lived in London for nearly 11 years now
After a fair few years as a civil engineer I re-edjumakated myself in business and started working as a management consultant.
Back home I played in a blues/r'nb/originals combo that toured round most of the North Island pubs in an old 54 Bedford bus. For the first few years in London quite bizarrely found myself doing gigs with some of the best blues and funk musicians in town; all very humbling. Since then have found my natural equilibrium with occasional gigs in a pub covers band and an alt-country/originals group, both mainly as a singer.
Aside from music, other interests are the usual big-city cultural stuff - galleries, architecture, theatre, comedy. Also travelling (Iran is the next big trip), history, world politics.
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geordiebluesman
181 posts
May 18, 2009
1:54 AM
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Hi guys,I'm 50 and am a self employed heating engineer, Ive' been building and fixing stuff for folk all my life. I love the simple things in life, Family and the great outdoors and i'm well blessed in both departments as i live in one of the most stunning parts of England and have been lucky enough to marry a woman who is not only beautifull but constantly hystericaly funny as well! My daughter is 14 and takes after her mam in both looks and wit (thank fook!) I got into Harp on doctors advice after a head injury severly damaged my short term memory, It started out as therepy but became a passion, I spend my summers going to motorbike rallies and music festivals and the rest of my time trying to have as much fun in life as i can. I have a serious heart condition so i am determined to GET IT WHILE I CAN!
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mickil
198 posts
May 18, 2009
3:08 AM
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GamblersHand,
When they arrive by the coach load - literally, over 1,000,000 from Poland alone in the last three years - it sure as hell doesn't help my employment prospects.
Furthermore, twice in the last five years, I've been passed over for full-time employment by the Home Office, while watching people who could barely write the languague or speak it better than I do French be given preferencial treatment. It's illegal in the UK, but it's on record that they do it. So don't task me on this one. Do you know how many people are currently unemployed in the UK?
Recently, the largest union in Poland has been protesting about the influx of cheap foreign labour undercutting their workforce; if memory serves, mainly from China and Belarus.
I'll stop typing now. My hands are shaking too much from anger.
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'If it sounds GOOD to you, it's bitchen; if it sounds BAD to YOU, it's shitty' - Frank Zappa
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Elwood
61 posts
May 18, 2009
3:52 AM
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My name's Murray Hunter, I'm 22. I've only been playing a short while -- between a year and two years depending on whether or not you want to count the many months spent idly blowing into the thing like a drug-addled ape.
I'm from South Africa, but spent eight years overseas during my childhood, including stretches in Istanbul, Kuala Lumpur, and a small Swiss village.
I'm a cartoonist, occasional photographer, erstwhile editor-in-chief of a student-run international affairs magazine that's seen better days, and occasional writer. Two days ago I moved to Brighton in the UK to be closer to my girlfriend, Katie, who's studying her ass off at the University of Sussex. During this time I'll be hoping to... Oh, I just read Mickil's post. I guess it's not important what I was hoping to do.
Don't worry, this is a short-term stay. I'll be gone before you know it.
Last Edited by on May 18, 2009 3:53 AM
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GamblersHand
25 posts
May 18, 2009
5:43 AM
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Mikil - apologies, it was just a coincidence that I logged in and read the postings above before my entry. It certainly wasn't intended as a wind-up.
Diversity, globalism, protectionism, national identity - in my opinion all these things have good and bad sides in theory or practice. And often what may be considered a theoretical public good can have grossly unfair impacts on a personal level. But I don't want to hijack the thread any more than I have and will just leave it at that.
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thescip
1 post
May 18, 2009
6:18 AM
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Hi just joined the forums today, although I've been reading the stuff here for a few weeks.
I've only been playing the harp for about a year but I'm really starting to figure the instrument out (i think)
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harpcrab
7 posts
May 18, 2009
8:29 AM
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What a diverse group! I practiced dentistry for about 20 years- decided I'd had enough for a while (still volunteer at the local free clinic), semi retired and bought a small business in the home construction field (crash and burn, baby!) Live in Virginia on the Chesapeake Bay- great place.
Been playing (trying) harp about 1-1/2 years- love it. Got the wife learning bass now and a few other friends blowing harp, too. Took one of Gindicks Jamcamps in Va Beach last Oct. and had a blast (thanks Adam). Last week I was just able to score the last cabin on the Blues Cruise for Jan. '10 (Jason Ricci, Taj Mahal, Keb' Mo, Curtis Salgado, Johnny Winter, Tommy Castro, Magic Dick, Annie Raines.... the list goes on) and I'm about to crap my pants I'm so excited!!! Saw the Nighthawks here in town last friday nite- Mark Wenner is a hell of a nice guy!
Thanks to all on this board for all the great info- I have really picked up alot!!
for scstrickland- have you been to Goodfellas in Hampton for open mic night?
Harpcrab
Last Edited by on May 18, 2009 8:35 AM
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harpinholley
7 posts
May 18, 2009
9:45 AM
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I have been playing harp for 4 years.Before that i was into rock climbing,mountain biking,backpacking,kayaking.I love to bodybuild,lifting weights releases stress.Painting when i have time.I use to raise parrots and keeshonds.I competed in bodybuilding back in the 90's.Played clarinet in school. Got a bsn in nursing.Now i mainly play harp and go to the mountains to hike and chill out.
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jaymcc28
48 posts
May 18, 2009
10:31 AM
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My name is Jay. I live in central Mass, about 40 minutes west of Boston. I've been playing harmonica for about 16 months. It took me close to 10 months to find this website and start to focus my learning.
I'm married (for the second time) to an incredible girl and have 2 kids from my first marriage. We also have 3 dogs, all rescues, all mutts, from the local shelter. Aside from my kids, our dogs are the center of lives. They're a good pack, fairly well behaved but certainly not models of obedience.
I work in the software industry and have for most of the past 23 years. I'm currently a trainer and consultant for a company that sells software and services to retailers. We provide a point-of-sale (think cash registers) and inventory control solution. I've been at it for 2+ years and it's enjoyable but with the economy in the tank right now every day is touch and go.
After working for 14 years in the software industry I took a hiaitus to chase a dream and coach athletics full time at my alma mater. I took a SEVERE pay cut and worked for 7 years coaching ice hockey and lacrosse. I had been coaching the hockey program for 14 years as a part-timer so the move wasn't completely off the wall (although my ex-wife would disagree!) After 7 years of doing that full-time, working insane hours and making very little money I decided to move back to the software world and do the "9 to 5 thing".
Music has always been a big part of my life but only as a 'consumer', not an artist. I first picked up an electric bass set up to try my hand at music but I didn't have the bandwidth to dedicate to learning it. I've always been a big fan of the harmonica (growing listening to The J. Geils Band) so finally asked for one a few Christmases back. I've been hooked ever since. After a couple of months of hacking away I bought the Gindick book (Rockin' Blues...) and thats when I really started to focus on the blues.
This forum and Adam's lessons have been my inspiration to keep trudging along. Aside from the drama (which I enjoy reading like a soap opera!) I've learned so much from all of you. One day I hope to have enough knowledge to give back.
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ness
7 posts
May 18, 2009
11:07 AM
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I'm John, a typical middle-aged guy with three teen aged kids. Played a little piano, harmonica and sang in the school choir as a kid, but I haven't done anything but sing along with recorded music, tap my toes and do an occasional air-guitar riff (all much to the chagrin of aforementioned teen agers) since then.
Decided a few months ago to take up harmonica because I figured it's an easy to learn, pretty inexpensive and portable instrument. I thought it would be nice to carry along when fishing, canoeing and camping - things which I love to do. I also just wanted to learn a little more about music for the mental and creative challenge - sorta blow the cobwebs out of those parts of the brain that have been neglected during 25 years in banking and finance.
So, what I'm finding is that it's not easy to learn. One is cheap, but one's not enough. I was spot-on about the portable part.
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Preston
354 posts
May 18, 2009
11:51 AM
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I'm a project manager and estimator for an electrical company. Spent 4 years in the field as a commercial electrician.
Went to college to be a computer networker. Decided I didn't want to set behind a desk all day and went to work for an electrical company that installed the cabling for computer networks. I thought that would be a nice happy medium: Computer networking without being stuck in an office. Then I got sidetracked and became an electrician.
Besides harp, my other hobbies are hanging out with my my wife and kids, and home improvement projects. Lately my newest hobby is landscaping my back yard.
I also like Pina Coladas and getting caught in the rain.
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Andrew
340 posts
May 18, 2009
12:49 PM
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Sorry, I rewrote this, so I've stuck it at the end.
I played oboe and piano from age 12 to age 21.
When I was 21 I dropped out of a degree in electronics in my final year. Computing was the thing I hated most.
Consequently I've been a programmer/analyst in the civil service in the UK for 24 years, but I was given 12 months' notice (possibly extended to 18) in September. I'm hoping to cling on until I'm 50 next April and get a pension.
I am a BA (Hons) Hum (Open), i.e. I have a degree in Classics with the Open University and I'm reading for a degree in math right now (I'm in year 4 of a 5-year part-time course, also OU). I also dropped out of a part-time Classics masters at University College London, because I'm a fool. When I was doing the masters, math was my escape. Now I'm doing math, Classics is my escape! I read, I listen to music and I watch the occasional movie, but only if it contains sex and/or comedy. Sometimes I play bridge.
When I bought my first harmonica, my girlfriend said, "what the fuck have you got there?"
I like to drink at lunchtimes because drinking in the evenings gives me insomnia.
I'm 5'6" and I weigh 165LB on a good day; I don't get many of those.
Last Edited by on May 18, 2009 2:19 PM
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RyanMortos
175 posts
May 18, 2009
12:52 PM
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Abridged version:
I always lived in PA. I graduated with a BS in computer science/digital media about 2 years ago. Dont much like my job at the moment as a programmer/analyst for almost 2 yrs. Other jobs are hard as hell to find. Im drowning in loan payments at wages that dont much more then pay them off. I live with my parents yet, hope to move out with my girlfriend into an apt in the next yr. I have problems with social anxiety disorder among other things. I assuredly have some blues to express from past experiences.
I told my girlfriend that I was interested in the harmonica about the time we started dating. A year after we first started dating she bought me my first. Ive been playing for about 7 months now. I found Adam's youtube videos shortly after getting the harmonica. I cant remember what I was googling but Ive been changed (& changing) ever since. I finally feel like Im doing something I enjoy as a hobby since I had quit skateboarding something like 10yrs ago, a mixture of time & politics. I have a very strong desire to be a good player one day & wont give up easily. I attend the Harmonica Association 'Round Philly monthly (or try to). Ive started listening to more blues, jazz, & everything else then Ive ever listened to before.
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~Ryan
PA
Ryan's Tube - Containing [0] uploads and counting...
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oda
102 posts
May 18, 2009
1:25 PM
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I find it very interesting that a lot of us work with computers. Does this mean anything? or is it a coincidence.
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Andrew
342 posts
May 18, 2009
1:35 PM
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I hope it's just a coincidence!
But we're the poorly paid ones. The better paid ones were all buying Fender Strats until the market collapsed.
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isaacullah
248 posts
May 18, 2009
1:53 PM
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Hello, My name is Isaac Ullah and a harp-o-holic....
Seriously, this is a pretty cool thread, lot's of diversity in this forum!
About me:
I'm 30 years old. My father is from Bangladesh, my Mom's from New Jersey. My wife is half Italian and half Norwegian. I currently live in Tempe Arizona in the "valley of the sun", or as I like to call it, "the anus of the sun". I'm originally from the San Francisco Bay Area where I have only learned since leaving is somewhat of a harmonica mecca. I'm getting my PhD in Archaeology at Arizona State. I work in Jordan. I'm leaving for fieldwork in Jordan on Saturday.
Besides harmonica: I've been told I'm a really good cook, and I quite enjoy cooking. I'm probly what you might call "outdoorsy". That means I like to go camping and hiking, no that I go hunting. I'm into DIY electronics, which is how I've come to know stuff about microphones, amplifiers, and effects. I do a bit of woodworking. I'm a pretty avid gardener. I fix my house and cars to the best of my ability, but I know when it is best/more cost effective to call in a pro. I love to travel, and especially to get of the beaten path. I like beer. I also like wine. I also like whiskey and tequila. I love to eat good food, and I love to try regional specialties when i travel, and then try to make a copy of those dishes when I get home. I like eating food that's in season. I do some computer programming. I use linux and I work with all free and opensource software to do my work (I also have and use windoze). I'm an expert at GIS software (look it up). I play racquetball. I used to play water polo and soccer. I also used to be way into kenpo karate. I used to play the drums. I like to read books. I read a lot of books. I love music, I collect cds. Yes, I still buy cds. I prefer them over MP3s. I like to have something on the shelf, that's why I bought the shelf. You can always rip a cd to mp3, but when you burn mp3's to cd, your left with a crappy cd that says "maxell" on it with the band name in sharpee and no artwork. that sucks. I like movies too, but they have to be good movies. I watch PBS. I watch it too much. I watch it all the time. I like tinkering with stuff. I like a lot more stuff too, but i'm running out of steam. I apparently like stream of consciousness writing. That is something I just discovered about myself at this very moment.
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The magnificent YouTube channel of the internet user known as "isaacullah"
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TBone69
47 posts
May 18, 2009
2:04 PM
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Hi all Tom here, AKA Tbone around the office and home. I am also a "Computer Guy" and turning the BIG 40 this year in Aug.
I was born in MI in 69, did a short stint in Mississippi and moved to NJ in 76.
I have been around computers my whole life. I grew up in the era of room sized computers and would go to work every weekend with my Dad. He would hand me a stack of punch cards and let me have at it. I was hanging 9 track tapes and programing COBOL at the ripe old of of 9 or 10.
I took a couple years of electronics in High School then went right into the work force programing in DBASE and FoxBase, way before Microsoft bought them and came out with Foxpro. I decided I really didn't like programming and went to Lincoln Tech, I'm also a gearhead, and got a job as a fleet mechanic for a beverage distributor.
After getting hurt on the job I realized a career in computers were a lot cleaner and paid a ton more money.
Fast forward a bunch of years, few jobs and layoffs, I have been at my curent job for 8 years and love it. I am the Support Engineer for a small Data Comm VAR, no mroe Corp America for me, and do anything and everything from technical presentations to the install and implementation. We specialize in Data Center Management tools and WAN optimization products.
Now for my musical background. I took piano/keyboard lessons years ago as a kid for maybe a year and picked up the Harp just a little over two years ago.
It was a slow start with the harp until I found Adam's YouTube videos. I started playing with the Church Band about a year and a half ago. Then when I got hooked up with Harmonica Around Philly Assoc things seem to progress even more and having a great time doing it.
Thats the quick overview, I have met a few fellow board memebers and hope to meet more. If you are in the NJ/Philly area come on out to the H.A.R.P meetings we have a great time.
To make a long story long as other interest/hobbies I collect antique toy trains and currently looking for a Model A to build into a traditional 50/60's hot rod.
Last Edited by on May 18, 2009 2:07 PM
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scstrickland
70 posts
May 18, 2009
3:08 PM
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Harpcrab - Where in Virgina are you? I'm in Hampton. I have tried to get to Goodfella' a couple of times but it is always past my bedtime. I promise I will go as soon as school gets out. It's a shame because it's only 5min from my house. I was at the VABeach Jam camp as well. I was the guy with the laptop and the dancing dog. I love my toys. Fire me an E-mail Scstrickland125@gmail.com
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Canner
1 post
May 18, 2009
3:38 PM
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Hello all, Stephen or aka "Canner" here, I just found this website and really like it. I am a disabled veteran, and have my computer to keep me busy.
On the other hand I have always had a love for playing the harmonica but never learned how to, and I am hopeing to change that.
I've been thinking of buying the Hohner 580 and or the Hohner pro harp. any advice would be great.
I grew up in Ohio and turned the big 40 last year, and the one thing I've noticed as i get older is, the B-days really dont mean so much, as they did when I was a kid,,lol.
Being disabled I have a ton of time on my hands so I am going to work my a$$ off to get good with the harp.
I will be lurking around the forums for a long time to come, so I hope to get to know some of ya, and learn a lot about the harp.
Take care all, and I'll see ya on here.
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snakes
228 posts
May 18, 2009
3:46 PM
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Hey Canner,
Welcome to the forum. My advice (bear in mind I play Suzukis) is that if you want to play a Hohner harmonica I think the easiest Hohner to learn on is the Special 20. I've purchased at least one key of most of the Hohner diatonic models and the Special 20 is the easieast for me to bend, etc. My experience with the Pro Harp is that it was leaky. Hope this helps.
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sopwithcamels266
48 posts
May 19, 2009
1:46 AM
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Answeres phone: "Hello Sopwithcamels266 club-Yes we are open tonight"
"What time do you open?"
"Well- err what time can you get here"
"Is there a dress code?"
"Yes if you could wear a tie.Nothing else just atie."
Bandstand:
"Good evenning Ladies and gentlemen on behalf of the band" Name the band
"4 musicians giving a great deal of pleasure to very few people." Response!
"I come from a poor family we really were desperately poor. My mother had to buy all my clothers from a second hand Army surplus store. I can tell you it's no fun for a 9 year old kid having to go round the nothern counties of England dressed in a japanese Admirals uniform."
Turns to highlight bass player.
"We are very fortunate in the band to have one the finest bass players in the world today."
Bass player raises stature some 4 inches at this point.
"Unfortunately he couln't be with us tonight." pause
"I'm only kidding please welcome the fantasic...." Response!
"For those of you who know our percussion man thats the drummer, you will note, he's never been the same since he fell down that wishing well." pause.
(Just finished a tune up temp hard driving)
"That last tune was for a man that requested the yellow rose of Texas. There were some of the same notes in it."
Taps 58 mic at this point, "Is this thing on"
Later on in first set.
"Before this next tune. I would like everyone to join hands and then let's all try and see if we can contact the living."
The old ones are the best,never fail, stack them like riffs.
Last Edited by on May 19, 2009 1:48 AM
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