[Harp-L] The principles of backing

[gnarlyheman@xxxxxxxxx]

Chords provide the best backing. 
Richter tuned harps do not have the main three chords used to harmonize most songs--the I, IV, and V. 
Straight harp has the I and V, but the IV chord is only two notes. 
There's a 3 note IV6, but since it starts on the 6th note it sounds like ii--this would be the Dm on a C harp ( and the two note F chord). 
Cross harp has the I and IV, but no V chord (that would be V of V, so the same Dm works--or not! It's minor, and a ii6 to boot). 
If I have not lost you yet, let me suggest that a Melody Maker in cross harp gives you the three chords--as would Country tuning, SmoJoe tuning or my favorite, the Tony Eyres tuning he calls Major Cross. 
With all of these the F would be sharp, making the chord acceptable for backing in cross harp. 
Thanks for your attention. 
Gary
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