How to learn to play the harmonica: basic techniques

2024 Author: Leah Sherlock | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 05:25

The harmonica is a unique instrument. It is small in size and very compact. A very interesting fact is that almost all the peoples of the world play their national music on this instrument.

How to learn to play the harmonica? It seems that this instrument is small and it is quite easy to learn how to play it, but this is a very big misconception. Each instrument is unique in its own way and has a special device mechanism, so it takes some time and diligence to master it.

Harmonicas are different

How to learn to play the harmonica and which one to choose? There are many varieties of harmonicas - each of them differs from each other in terms of the mechanism of use and price. There are two main varieties of the harmonica:

1. Diatonic. This is the most affordable option in terms of price-quality ratio. It has only one tone, so you will have to be "creative" within this limitation.
2. Chromatic - more expensive instrument (price mayup to several hundred dollars). This type of harmonica has a mechanical device, so in this case the answer to the question: "How to learn to play the harmonica from scratch?" is more complex. The harmonica has from twelve to sixteen holes and is tuned to any key.

Besides, harmonicas differ among themselves by the country-manufacturer. Everyone knows the German instrument Hohner MS 20, Hohner Big River Harp, Hohner Alabama Blues, Brazilian Hering Free Blues, Japanese Thombo Lee Oskar (large selection of keys, including minor), Suzuki. Experts do not recommend buying Chinese-made harmonicas. Of course, they are cheaper, but of poor quality. Also, do not buy tools of unknown brands.

Note

In professional literature, the terms "accordion" and "harmonica" are synonymous. Most likely, the roots come from the traditional name of the harmonica in France - "French harmonica".

Accordion is one of the types of reed instruments. The brass reeds used set the tone for the sound of the entire musical instrument. For example, if a student plays the diatonic harmonica, then when exhaling, sounds are played in the key of G major, and when inhaling, sounds are played in C major. These keys harmoniously complement each other, which gives the sound integrity and completeness.

How to learn to play the harmonica with tablature?

Tablature -a kind of musical notation, namely the schematic notation of music for certain keyboards, such as the organ, harpsichord, several strings, such as the lute, guitar, and very rarely wind instruments.

When learning how to play the harmonica, you can use tablature. In this case, notes are replaced by a certain template system and places for inhalations and exhalations are marked. Please note that the tablature for diatonic and chromatic harmonica differ significantly from each other.

How to learn to play the harmonica from scratch? Very simple. It is necessary to carefully study the basic techniques and constantly apply them in practical classes.

Basic techniques

To learn how to play the harmonica without the help of a teacher, you should familiarize yourself with the main significant "keys" in learning:

1. Learn to play notes on the exhale. This is the very initial stage, it is called "direct harmonica". Try to gently blow into the holes, distribute the sound evenly. Then direct the air into three holes at once, achieve a harmonious sound. The lips must control the number of holes that air enters.
2. Changing notes is the second step, it's called "cross harmonica". The change in the sound of a note occurs when you take a deep breath. Remember not to inhale sharply. Inhale gently and slowly, gradually increasing the notes. Harmonica experts focus on inhaling and exhaling airfollows through the mouthpiece.

So how do you learn to play the harmonica? You just need to go through the two main stages described above, and you can completely immerse yourself in this amazing and unsurpassed world of music.

All experts unanimously say: in order to independently learn how to play the harmonica from scratch, you need to practice as much as possible - you need to devote several hours a day to this lesson. These two main "keys" should play automatically. And then you will very soon master the harmonica.