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

Just received my Special 20 in the key of C

3 replies [Last post]
Wed, 03/22/2017 - 16:15
donthorndike@ya...
donthorndike@yahoo.com's picture
Offline
Joined: 03/22/2017

You mentioned in the intro LOA an A harp is needed. Can I use my C to get aquainted with my lessons or is it best for me to purchase an A key instrument ?

Top
Wed, 03/22/2017 - 18:28
#1
David Barrett
David Barrett's picture
Offline
ExpertHead InstructorTeacher 10Level 10
Joined: 12/20/2009
Welcome to the site. There is

Welcome to the site. There is an intro lesson for those with only the C Harmonica, and it is found here http://www.bluesharmonica.com/lessons/c_harmonica_intro_lesson. After this lesson if you decide to continue you will need to pick up an A Harmonica. Best wishes on your studies.

Top
Sun, 03/26/2017 - 18:07
#2
fabian.pinzon
fabian.pinzon's picture
Offline
Joined: 03/12/2017
It is a shame

Hi David,

Same problem

It is a shame that these lessons just work with A harmonica. I have 2 key C and it is difficult to buy another one. 

Fabian

 

Top
Sun, 03/26/2017 - 21:36
#3
David Barrett
David Barrett's picture
Offline
ExpertHead InstructorTeacher 10Level 10
Joined: 12/20/2009
Hello Fabian. The A harmonica

Hello Fabian. The A harmonica is by far the most common harmonica used in blues. If you were to go to a jam session or sit in at a buddy’s gig, the harmonica you would throw in your pocket would no doubt be the A harmonica.

The harmonica that you first learn will be the key of harmonica you’ll be most comfortable playing for a while, so it’s beneficial to have your “go-to harp” be the common A harmonica.

It’s especially helpful to use the A harmonica when learning the important technique of bending. If students first learn how to bend on a high-keyed harmonica, such as the C harmonica, they often struggle when trying to play the more common lower-keyed harmonicas like G, A and Bb.

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