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

Memorizing songs

1 reply [Last post]
Wed, 04/18/2012 - 12:13
Taylor Ward
Taylor Ward's picture
Offline
Teacher 3Level 7
Joined: 06/03/2011

Hi David,

I have a bit of songs under my belt now and I would like to start memorizing some of them. Do you have any methodology to go about memorizing a song?

Thank you,
Taylor

Top
Wed, 04/18/2012 - 14:50
#1
David Barrett
David Barrett's picture
Offline
ExpertHead InstructorTeacher 10Level 10
Joined: 12/20/2009
Answer

Play along to the original, then play along to the jam track (if one exists). After this is going well, switch it... play the jam track and then the original just to make sure you you're staying true to the original. Ultimately you get to the point where you just play to the jam track.

The last step is to write the first couple of notes (not the entire lick) for the first lick in each chorus... making a quick reference to help you remember the ordering of choruses. This is a great tool to move away from the sheet music. All you need is a spark to remind you of how each chorus goes.

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