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Harmonica mouthpiece allergy?

I have just taken up Harmonica playing....the mouthpiece is chrome plated (over what metal I'm not sure...brass?) after a short period of playing.....10 hours in total, the mouthpiece has become dark tarnished and a small area appears to have abraded off completely. The tarnishing mostly comes off with vigorous rubbing with a damp cloth but returns quite soon. My lips do become sore but I'm not sure if this is a result of the chrome or the newness of the constant lip contact? The soreness is like a cold-sore from which I have never suffered previously. Would stripping and silver plating help and, if so, where could I take it to be done...(jeweler?). Thanks for your time.

Mr Stephen Hilder
- Chatham, KENT, UK
2004

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I suggest you see your doctor before embarking on a replating project. Make sure your problem is due to the harmonica and then I suggest you look for a reputable plating shop in your area. If there isn't one, contact the Metal Finishing Association. Alternatively, try taking it to a good music shop - they may be able to help you.

Trevor Crichton
R&D practical scientist
Chesham, Bucks, UK
2004

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2004

You could use Hohner coated models like pro harp or cross harp (the edge of the brass reed plate is still protruding out of them), or the more complete solution; the plastic lids which fits on special 20 model (no reed plate coming out of that model).

Sami Sulva
- Helsinki, Finland

I have the same problem with fever blisters, it is caused by pressure from the harmonica. It has nothing to do with the outer case and what it is made of. These viruses live under the skin and are activated by the sun, fever, upset stomach and pressure on the lips from playing the harmonica over a long period of time. It happens to me frequently. I use harmonicas with stainless steel covers and it still happens.

James F. Cross
- Decatur, Tennessee
2004