Hi Russ,

Yeah, we old time organ players have to stick together.

The Hammond 44 price is $549.00 at Sound Electra . This may seem kind of pricey, but keep in mind this is a pro piece, designed beautifully, includes an internal mic, and comes with three mouthpiece choices and a very snazzy looking padded nylon gig bag.

Like Hohner, Suzuki has been in the harmonica business for years and have offered a variety of what they refer to as a Melodion. The Suzuki Pro37v2 and the Hammond 44 (made by Suzuki) use special phosphorus bronze tapered reeds that produce a very warm sound but also can get bright and brassy with more air pressure. I made a small bracket out of coated aluminum wire that acts as a boom to hold a lapel mic above the keyboard. When I put my left hand through the strap on the back of the instrument, this bracket slips between my palm and the body of the Pro37v2 and then extends up and above the keys. The mic is wireless so I can stroll anywhere I want and let people see just what it is I am playing. It has gone over quite well. In fact, I really haven't had this much fun playing a new instrument in quite a while. Sounds silly maybe, but true.

In fact, I am trying to figure out some way that I can work for or with Hammond to promote these instruments. "Any kind words anyone feels like forwarding on the Hammond would be appreciated" .

Dave

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Wm. David McMahan
LearnMyKeyboard
JazzItUp Band