Skip to main content
Blues Harmonica logo

User Account

Username:*
Password:*
Forgot Your Password?

Visitor Menu

  • Sign Up
  • Sample Lesson #1
  • Sample Lesson #2
  • Student Recordings
  • Forums
Forums :: Ask Instructor David Barrett

I don't like my licks

2 replies [Last post]
Tue, 01/14/2014 - 10:25
New Player
New Player's picture
Offline
Level 4
Joined: 09/27/2011

So I have been spending 15-20 minutes each day working on improvising using all of the chorus forms. I can't help but notice that all of the licks I came up with - they suck. I don't want to take the easy way out by just copying licks from another song though..What should I do?Thanks.

Top
Tue, 01/14/2014 - 10:40
#1
David Barrett
David Barrett's picture
Offline
ExpertHead InstructorTeacher 10Level 10
Joined: 12/20/2009
Answer

I recommend that you DO use other player's licks, this is how we develop our vocabulary. Take licks from the players that inspire you… great players. Chorus Forms is a way to help you memorize those licks and learn how to place them into what we know to be good phrasing. Don't be fixated on creating your own licks, his will happen naturally as the years roll on.

Top
Tue, 01/14/2014 - 10:48
#2
New Player
New Player's picture
Offline
Level 4
Joined: 09/27/2011
Hello Mr. Barrett-   You're

Hello Mr. Barrett-

 

You're right. Learn to walk before you run.. it's right idea.

Thank you.

Top

Sign me up!

Full access to all lessons starts at $20/month! (with annual subscription)

Subscribe

Free Sample Lessons

After watching the BluesHarmonica.com overview video, try one of the lessons below to experience a lesson at BluesHarmonica.com.

  • Tongue Blocking Study 2 – This study is for the newer player or the player new to tongue blocking
  • Bending Study 5 – This is for the advanced player looking to improve their bending skills

Contributors

  • Aki Kumar
  • Joe Tartaglia
  • Gary Smith
  • Mark Hummel
  • Joe Filisko

Site Links

  • About David Barrett
  • Accredited Instructors
  • Links
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Contact Us
Hohner
© 2009 - 2025 David Barrett and the Harmonica Masterclass Co. for Bluesharmonica.com