Learn to play the harmonica

Here's a fun video presented on SPAH's new website covering how the old Kratt Co. made harmonicas. Visit: http://090211d.membershipsoftware.org/content.asp?admin=Y&contentid=41

Simple tip today... chin up.

I commonly receive questions from students about how to control saliva (especially those new to tongue blocking). In most cases they're practicing at a table or on a bed where the music or computer is low. Get the sheet music (music stand) or computer monitor (some stacked books to elevate?) up higher so that your chin/head is level. In other words, don't have your chin/head lowered so that your spit sides into your harmonica! :-)

Now that the King of Swing contest submission period is over and judging has begun, this gives you the great opportunity to test your listening skills. Go to http://www.bluesharmonica.com/king-of-swing and listen to the first entry... not looking at any of the comments. Listen once just to appreciate the song. Listen again and make note of what you hear from chorus to chorus (texture, range, rhythm, dynamics, execution, head, hook, soloing theme, etc.). You'll most likely need to listen to the song four to five times, but that's the point... focused listening takes time. continue reading...

You of course need a pimpin' ride for your harmonicas!

Hohner Harp Folder
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/folk-traditional-instruments/hohner-leath...

Fender Harmonica Case (Note that Musician's Friend has a lower-price knock-off)
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/folk-traditional-instruments/fender-harmo...

Hetrick Harmonica Cases
http://www.harpcase.com/

Custom Harp Cases
http://www.customharpcases.com/

Cadillac Pete's Harmonica Stand
http://www.cadillacpete.com/harmonicaStands.html

“Struggle is not optional, it’s neurologically required. In order to get your skill circuit to fire optimally, you must by definition fire the circuit sub optimally. You must make mistakes, and pay attention to those mistakes… you must slowly teach your circuit. You must also keep firing that circuit, i.e. practicing, in order to keep myelin functioning properly, after all, myelin is living tissue.” Pg 44, The Talent Code: Greatness Isn’t Born. It’s Grown. Here’s How. by Daniel Coyle Notes