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Forums :: Ask Instructor David Barrett

Which key harmonica should I choose?

5 replies [Last post]
Wed, 05/06/2020 - 12:01
dougy03
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Joined: 05/03/2020

Hi David,

 

I am BRAND NEW to the Harmonica, and music in general (To the point where I did not know what a key was, until a few weeks ago). The last time I took a music class was in elementary school. So again, this is all brand new to me. I have always been drawn to, and intruiged by the Harmonica. I am eager to learn, so one day I can teach my kids. 

My struggle at this point is choosing the correct key of Harmonica. I was playing around with a Hohner Blues Band in "C"... and recently purchased a Marine Band 1896 in the Key of "C". Most of the research I've done tells me to get a "C", but my gut tells me I want to be playing in an "A", due to it being a lower key, to be more in tune to Blues music.

I noticed the early levels in the "Levels of Achievement" Program suggests starting in the key of "A." 

From listening to music, I love the way the "A" and the "G" sound, from a Blues stand point.

Without purchasing all three, which one should I choose? 

 

Thank you,

Kevin D.

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Wed, 05/06/2020 - 12:19
#1
David Barrett
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ExpertHead InstructorTeacher 10Level 10
Joined: 12/20/2009
Hello Kevin. Welcome to the

Hello Kevin. Welcome to the site and the harmonica. Your ears are telling you correctly... the A is the most common harmonica used in the blues. Get the A first, then G, then D, then Bb, and finally the Low-F... we'll use all of these in the lessons over time.

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Wed, 05/06/2020 - 12:26
#2
dougy03
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Thanks David, I'm on it!   -

Thanks David, I'm on it!

 

- Kevin

 

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Wed, 05/06/2020 - 14:58
#3
R3Dz
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Level 1
Joined: 12/19/2018
you will not regret the G XD

you will not regret the G XD it's my favorite harmonica key

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Sun, 05/24/2020 - 07:05
#4
stellariz
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Joined: 05/24/2020
Flunkie?? :(

Hi David, 

After researching and before having access to this class I purchased the Special 20 Progressive in C.  I'm afraid that I shouldn't be practicing along with you since you recommend the A for beginners.  Do I need to drop out??

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Sun, 05/24/2020 - 08:06
#5
David Barrett
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ExpertHead InstructorTeacher 10Level 10
Joined: 12/20/2009
Hello stellariz, welcome to

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

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