Closing off the Air - Articulation Series

An articulation is anything that closes off the air stream for a moment and then quickly opens it up to rush air into the harmonica to emphasize a draw or blow note. Though not a true articulation, let's start with "HA," which is in the greater articulation family due to the fact that it does emphasize a given note with a volume change. Try this lick in a swing (shuffle) rhythm just breathing... no pumping of the diaphragm (HA)...

2 2 3 3 4 4 5+ 6+

Now try "HA" on each note and notice how it gives life to the phrase.