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

Improvising

1 reply [Last post]
Wed, 12/03/2014 - 12:32
Intervaltraining
Intervaltraining's picture
Offline
Level 5
Joined: 10/25/2013

Hi David,

When improvising, could I mix riffs (I think thats the right word) from say a Garys Blues (Which would I be right in saying is a shuffle) and The Strut (Which is a rock beat).

Many Thanks,

Paul

Top
Wed, 12/03/2014 - 12:55
#1
David Barrett
David Barrett's picture
Offline
ExpertHead InstructorTeacher 10Level 10
Joined: 12/20/2009
Answer

Hello Paul. The word "lick" is more common, riff is more commonly used for a lick that's repeated (used to describe what a lick is doing in a phrase). You can use licks from either song, though it will be challenging to change the rhythmic presentation from a rock beat to a shuffle, or a shuffle to a rock beat. Give it a try, it's worth a try.

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