Beginner question re harmonic 'English-style' playing

[hjcjones]

FIne, if it doesn't interfere with the rythym. An oom=pah accompaniment will often conincide with alternate notes and cancel out the bellows changes, but sometimes they can clash. My point is that you can smooth out the melody where necessary to avoid this, and that bellows changes don't have to be forced by the demands of the instrument and can be musical choices.

[John Wild]

In the U.K., there are regional clubs in various parts of the country. If you can get to one of their meetings whereever you are, you might find it worthwhile.

See the clubs and organisations page at https://www.concertina.info/ 

 

Regards,

John

[AndrewCollins]

18 hours ago, Jane_in_UK said:

Most days I have a confidence wobble and think I’ve bitten off more than I can chew and wonder if I should’ve just stuck with learning in the Irish style, but I’m determined to stick with harmonic playing as it’s so much more interesting. I just need to plug away at it and be patient with my slow progress. 

Hello Jane,  

Don't let it knock your confidence.  Yes, it's a lot to get your head ( not to mention your fingers ) around - but you can do it ; it'll just take practice effort ...... and it does get easier ( honest ! )

Maybe play the occasional tune melody only for a bit of easy(er) relief. 

Also; remember that you could simplify what your left hand is playing - so lose a few notes from the chord shapes - might make life easier, and you'll still have a bit of accompaniment there to keep the bellows directions you need on track.

Andrew

[AndyNT]

I'd strongly advise investing in a couple of lessons to help you to move up the learning curve.

John Kirkpatrick gives Zoom lessons, as does Cohen B-K. There are probably others as well teaching harmonic style anglo, rather than Irish style.