So you want to play the intriguingly complex harmonica.
It's going to take dedication and extensive practice, but in the process, lots of fun too.
Here are my 5 tips for beginners before taking harmonica lessons.
1.
Watch videos of harmonica experts - My purpose is to make you see the techniques and the correct handling of this instrument.
Other than the mouth, the hands play a huge role.
2.
When you're ready to learn and practice, go ahead and buy one - What you're looking for is the best model to help you learn and practice.
Here are my recommendations: o Diatonic in the Key of C - The standard key to start with is the Key of C, since the pitch is just right, not too high and not too low, perfect for learning songs and accompanying recorded music.
o Pick the 10 hole Diatonic - The perfect type, for you to learn effectively.
A one row, 10 hole Diatonic harmonica is just what you need to start practicing.
Never mind if it's different from what you see experts use, the 10 hole is best for newbies.
o Best model - I suggest you scout for a Hohner Special 20, it sounds great, yet not too expensive.
Remember, as you get better, you might want to buy a different model, and maybe with more holes or rows.
So for now, choose one that sounds great, with a reasonable price.
3.
Check for sound quality - Test your choices to compare how each one sounds.
Don't worry if you can't play yet; just blow on the holes and listen, pick which one sounds best.
4.
Get familiar with the sound of each key - If you have not taken musical lessons before, I suggest you get familiar with your harmonica and its keys, before you start searching for tabs and online lessons.
Learn by listening to the sound each key makes, which key goes well with the other keys.
It is essential for you to learn notes and keys, however, for now, get close and personal with your harmonica's sound first.
5.
Get intimate with your harmonica - Most of the good players I know, understood little about keys and notes, but never left the harmonica just lying around, it stayed where it belongs, in the mouth.
It's going to take dedication and extensive practice, but in the process, lots of fun too.
Here are my 5 tips for beginners before taking harmonica lessons.
1.
Watch videos of harmonica experts - My purpose is to make you see the techniques and the correct handling of this instrument.
Other than the mouth, the hands play a huge role.
2.
When you're ready to learn and practice, go ahead and buy one - What you're looking for is the best model to help you learn and practice.
Here are my recommendations: o Diatonic in the Key of C - The standard key to start with is the Key of C, since the pitch is just right, not too high and not too low, perfect for learning songs and accompanying recorded music.
o Pick the 10 hole Diatonic - The perfect type, for you to learn effectively.
A one row, 10 hole Diatonic harmonica is just what you need to start practicing.
Never mind if it's different from what you see experts use, the 10 hole is best for newbies.
o Best model - I suggest you scout for a Hohner Special 20, it sounds great, yet not too expensive.
Remember, as you get better, you might want to buy a different model, and maybe with more holes or rows.
So for now, choose one that sounds great, with a reasonable price.
3.
Check for sound quality - Test your choices to compare how each one sounds.
Don't worry if you can't play yet; just blow on the holes and listen, pick which one sounds best.
4.
Get familiar with the sound of each key - If you have not taken musical lessons before, I suggest you get familiar with your harmonica and its keys, before you start searching for tabs and online lessons.
Learn by listening to the sound each key makes, which key goes well with the other keys.
It is essential for you to learn notes and keys, however, for now, get close and personal with your harmonica's sound first.
5.
Get intimate with your harmonica - Most of the good players I know, understood little about keys and notes, but never left the harmonica just lying around, it stayed where it belongs, in the mouth.
Source...