How to Play the Harmonica

Introduction

• The harmonica is one of the simplest instruments to play and fits various musical styles.
• Objective: Provide a comprehensive guide on playing the harmonica.

Step 1: Types of Harmonicas

• Diatonic:
  • Most common and simplest type
  • Has 10 holes, plays major, diatonic scale
  • Additional notes by "bending"
• Chromatic:
  • Includes a button for chromatic scales
  • Allows playing every note; not recommended for blues
• Tremolo and Octave Harmonicas:
  • Double row of holes
  • Tremolo creates a vibrating effect
  • Octave creates a fuller sound
• Special Tunings:
  • Minor scales and multi-key scales available
• Recommendation: Start with a diatonic harmonica in the key of C.

Step 2: Brands of Harmonicas

• Common brands: Hohner, Hering, Lee Oskar, Suzuki, Seydel, Bushman, Huang.
• Lee Oskar: Recommended for beginners due to ease of play and quality sound.

Step 3: How the Harmonica Works

• Blowing into the harmonica produces major chord notes (C, E, G).
• Combination of inhaling (drawing) and exhaling (blowing) is necessary.
• Pattern irregularities are present in holes 2, 7, and 10.

Step 4: Techniques for Playing

• Pucker Method:
  • Push lips outward to play a single note
  • Helpful to imagine lips around the harmonica
• Tongue Method:
  • Cover unwanted holes with the tongue to isolate notes
  • Useful for "splitting" notes
• Choice of method depends on player preference.

Step 5: Try a Song

• Begin practicing with provided harmonica tabs.

Step 6: Bending - Part 1

• Enables pitch alteration; important for blues
• Most common are draw bends
• Requires control of mouth shape and airflow

Step 7: Bending - Part 2

• Tilt Method:
  • Physically tilt harmonica to change airflow angle
  • Start with #4 draw for practice
• Without Tilting:
  • Change mouth and tongue shape to alter airflow
  • Focus on breath control and simultaneous actions

Step 8: Playing in Different Positions - Intro

• First position (C) and second position (G) extend playing to multiple keys
• Positions increase by a fifth with each step

Step 9: Second Position

• Key of G
• Primarily for blues
• Allows for mixolydian and major pentatonic scales

Step 10: Third Position

• Key of D
• Used for blues and Dorian minor scales

Step 11: Fourth Position

• Key of A
• Used for minor scales and minor pentatonic scales

Step 12: Fifth Position

• Key of E
• Less common, allows for various modes and scales

Step 13: Collecting Harmonicas

• Start with key of C; expand to natural keys
• Lee Oskar harmonicas may offer additional benefits like cases

Step 14: Cleaning

• Without Disassembling: Rinse with water (plastic comb only)
• Disassembling: Thorough cleaning with soap and water (plastic and metal parts)
• Avoid soap on wood combs
• Various cleaning kits available

Step 15: References and Links

• Resources for further learning and practice:
  • Websites with theory, tabs, and video lessons
  • Recommendations for listening to enhance playing skill