Tip of the Day

The Low C (Hohner Model 354 or 365) is also a great harp to have and is even more common than the Low D. The Hohner Low C is a larger body size though (impressive size, but it takes time to get used to). Sydel does make a Low C (and lower) in the standard body size.

The Low D is the lowest Hohner harmonica that you can purchase that is still made in a standard body size. Sonny Boy Williamson II (Rice Miller) can be heard playing "Bye Bye Bird" on this harmonica. This is a great harmonica for chugging (listen to some of the King of the Chug submissions). I also like this harmonica for accompaniment playing when the song is in the key of D (listen to "Chicago Style" on my CD SERIOUS FUN with John Garcia).

The Low E is a great harmonica to play in 1st Position. It's also a great trainer for learning how to blow bend. 2nd Position (key of B) and 3rd Position (key of F#) are not too common, so this will mostly be a 1st Position harp for you.

Low-F is the first of the low series harps you should have in your bag. The regular F is the highest standard harp and places you in the key of C when played in 2nd Position. This high, brash harp is great for songs like "Mustang Sally," but is not appropriate for all songs. The Low-F gives you another choice to play in C and is great to have for the song that calls for a harp that's more subtle.

The F Harmonica is the highest standard harmonica. Did you know they make a High G? It's pretty tough to play, but a fun harmonica to have in your bag.

An important element of bending control is to start a note bent (without it sliding down or up to achieve the pitch), hold it at pitch (not allowing it to waiver in pitch) and stop it on pitch (not letting the pitch raise). Try this holding the bent note for as long as possible, keeping the volume consistent. This is called practicing "long tones" and is common in the brass world (like trumpet). Give it a try, it's a great exercise.

Some players, including myself, have the the middle finger of their left hand behind the harmonica. Many have asked if it affects the tone. No worries, it doesn't.

Driving Under the Harmonica Influence Warning...

Here's something to think about as you're commuting or driving a long distance on a holiday trip. continue reading...

Your tip comes from subscriber Marko. Marko stated that when his cup is very airtight he can't play a 2". This IS the result of a super-airtight cup... a great test.

Are you supposed to play this airtight? Only preceding your WA technique (you don't play with a super airtight cup the whole time), but if your WA starts with a bend, then you need to back off a bit on how airtight you are.

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

Do you have a light touch with your tongue on the face of the harmonica? Let's test.

Hold the right-end of the harmonica with your thumb and one finger... thumb on bottom... finger on top. Hold it loosely so it acts like a hinge. Try a slap... or a pull... or an octave. Does the harmonica push away as soon as you place your tongue on the harmonica? If so, you're pushing too hard. Light touch equals faster, better tone and less tongue abrasion! ;-)