General Group Guidelines:
1) The primary focus of this group is to enjoy playing and learning about the harmonica. We meet regularly to share our knowledge, fellowship, and to play the blues. We do not discuss outside issues such as politics, religion or anything else not related to playing the harmonica.
2) The only requirement for membership is a desire and enthusiasm to play the harmonica. Everyone is welcome – beginners through advanced. There are no fees or dues for membership. However, we may ask for donations to pay for unexpected costs or fees related to our activities.
3) We are not a moneymaking enterprise. In general, we prefer to be self-supporting, but we may accept donations or sponsorship with good intention. We may fund-raise or sponsor harmonica/blues related events. These financial matters are to be decided by the group collective and must be supported by the majority of members.
4) There are no leaders or officers in our group. The group members, as a collective, can only make decisions that affect the group as a whole. We may elect special representatives such as a treasurer or secretary, but these positions only serve the good of the group and they have no authority or special privilege. Every member gets one vote and can be heard.
5) Please leave your Egos at the door. We recognize that members will vary in playing ability and skill. There are no “big shots” or “hot dogs” at the meetings. Everyone must come ready to listen, learn and share. Teach and be teachable. We place a premium on patience and humility.
6) There are no secrets at our meeting. We do not play with our backs facing to the stage. There is nothing worse than a musician that is unwilling to share his knowledge and skill. If someone asks you how to play a technique or riff, it is suggested that you make your best effort to show him or her. If you do not want to share a certain technique or trick, don’t bring it to the meeting.
7) There will be no soliciting or “selling” of any kind while the group is in session. If you are a music retailer, instructor or sell another type of service or product, you may not “sell” or “pitch” at the meetings. You may however, make your profession known. Members may freely approach each other OUTSIDE of the meeting. Please do not conduct business during meetings.
8) Please keep the meetings a “family friendly” environment. Family members including children are always welcome at meetings. Lets work to maintain an environment where everyone will be comfortable. Please leave the “Champagne and Reefer” at home.
9) Each Meeting will require a host. Members are encouraged to volunteer to host meetings. The meeting host will select a location and set the general meeting agenda. We prefer meeting locations that are easily accessible and have plenty of room to accommodate the group. Please Respect your host. This is not your mother’s house. Clean up after yourself. Do not smoke unless the host has designated a place for you to do so. Do not steal or damage property. Do not raid their fridge. You get the idea.
10) We are a disorganized organization. We generally meet once a month unless the conscience of the group decides otherwise. Meetings may be loosely structured or prepared, but in general we prefer to improvise. In general, the host will set the meeting agenda but will always be flexible. Members from the group are encouraged to meet and play together outside of the “Harp Enthusiast” Meetings. Play together! Have fun! Start a band!
11) It is a good idea to speak one language for tablature. When sharing harmonica tablature, it can be quite confusing when every member is using a different format. A good one to use is David Barrett’s style:
3 = Draw, 3+ Blow, 3’ = Bend, 3” = Double bend etc. When presenting tablature in a different format, we ask that you provide a legend.
12) Please respect each other. We never criticize another member in any shape or form. Share your experience, positively encourage and give constructive feedback. Treat others as you would want to be treated.
