Beginner Harmonica

This course is suitable for anyone who considers themselves a beginner. Whether you've never played harmonica before and are just starting out, or you have some experience but have yet to master all the basics, this course is for you.

Every week, students will receive materials and/or advice for practicing at home, have any of their individual questions or difficulties addressed, and have the opportunity to play all together as a class. We'll be focusing on those skills most necessary for competent harmonica playing, including: playing chords, playing single notes, "bending" notes, basic music theory for the harmonica, and playing along with other musicians.

By the end of the course, students will have cultivated a solid foundation for a lifetime of exploring and enjoying making music with the harmonica.

Required Materials:

A 10-hole, Richter-tuned diatonic harmonica (that is, the standard harmonica with which most of us are familiar) in the key of C will be required for this course. An additional harmonica in the key of G is suggested but not required. Students are also encouraged to bring to class any other keys they may already own, the more the better. If purchasing new, the Hohner 1896 Marine Band is recommended.