Practice Tip: Active Listening

Students often start playing along to the harmonica part right away when learning a new song. Get in the habit of listening more before you begin to study. When approaching a new song, listen to it one time each, focusing on the: drummer; bassist; guitarist; pianist or organist (if present); horns (if present); harmonica; and overall dynamics. When you start to learn the harmonica part, loop the first lick and be able to hum it (either aloud or in your head) before picking up the harmonica to try and copy it. “Don’t learn a song until you know it,” is a great motto to follow before picking up your harmonica to study. This focused listening will help tremendously in your ability to: play the parts accurately; play in time; use good dynamics; and memorize the song.