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Level 2 - Levels of Achievement

This lesson track is for harmonica players that have completed LOA Level 1, or for those that can already move around the harmonica comfortably using single notes; play two-note textures, shakes and chording; and have reviewed the Blues Harmonica Fundamentals lesson. Within this level of study you'll learn: Tongue Slaps and Lifts; the 12 Bar Blues Form; Chording/Chugging; the basics of Music Theory as it pertains to the Harmonica’s Pitch-Set; and the basics of Accompaniment Playing.

Watch the video at left for more details.

When you've completed the material below, submit it to me (David Barrett) for review and LOA recognition. After submitting your material, a confirmation page will provide you with a link to pay the $35 testing fee. Reminder... to receive LOA recognition the program is to be completed in order (starting from Level 1).

  1. Lesson Plan/Requirements

    • "Temperature" Tongue Block Study 2

      This is your first study song that uses the 12 Bar Blues Form. We also dig into the all-important tongue blocking technique of the “Slap.”

    • Solo Harmonica Study 2

      This is where you develop the skill to play self-accompanied within the 12 Bar Blues Form. You can go as deep into this study as you wish, though right now let's focus on examples 1.1 through 1.6.

    • Accompaniment Study 1 & Accompaniment Study 2 Foundations & Root Notes

      We’re not always the lead soloists when playing with others—let’s develop the skill to play with others in a supportive roll. Go through the material in both of these studies.

    • Music Theory Study 1 - Section 2

      Moving on to Section 2 we dig into how the harmonica is tuned, with and without bending.

Once you’ve completed this material it’s now time record and submit the written section to David for review.

Take Level 2 Test

Additional Helpful Material

  • The song "Temperature" sounds great on an amplifier. Take this opportunity to visit Cupping & Hand Effects to learn how to use the bullet mic. Also visit the Equipment Lessons page and watch the Amps - What You Need To Know and Mics - What You Need To Know

  • While working on "Temperature" let's start developing your bending skills in Bending Study 1. There is no testing for this as of yet… just get a head-start on the technique before we use it in a musical context.

  • Remember to check in with beginning students Hob Bosold and Sharon Barrett to see how they're doing with the same material.

Quick Reference Guide

Though there's detailed information on the LOA program in this and the following pages, here's a Quick Reference Guide of all the LOA Level material requirements for your convenience.