usefulness of low D in sessions

the_instrument_player · Fri Jan 10, 2003 11:54 am

Not that I really have a lot of session experience... but one of my common philosophies with music in general is that an instruments doesn't necessarily have to be "heard" individually in order to make a useful contribution. Sometimes the way it blends with another instrument creates a whole new, unique timbre that enhances the sound. For instance, even though a low whistle might not be heard above the violin, it may blend with it to create a new sound-- because you don't just hear the violin alone anymore, you hear it blended with a touch of low D beauty. =) Ok, so I like low whistles, but anyways, that is my 2 cents worth.

Loren · Post by **Loren** » Fri Jan 10, 2003 2:03 pm

Well, my only problem with that is that when I can't hear myself, then playing well enough to blend with others is virtually impossible for me. Others may be able to do it, but not me. I don't care to be the loudest person in the room, that's bad mojo, I just need to be loud enough to hear myself so I can fit in and be a positive contributor to what's going on, and that's not always possible when playing low d, but then that's just me.

Loren

colomon · Post by **colomon** » Fri Jan 10, 2003 3:11 pm

Same for me, Loren -- if I can't hear myself, I can't play.

Jo C · Post by **Jo C** » Sat Jan 11, 2003 2:51 pm

If you have a good strong low D, like an overton ar Kerry Pro, they're useful for knocking out offending bodhran, guitar or flute players.