--It is small. You can carry it anywhere in your pocket.
--It is, cheap, inexpensive and affordable. I mean, virtually anyone can afford at least one harmonica.
Should you get a cheap one? Well, the consensus and recommendation was, no. If you only have enough money for one, get a Hohner diatonic C harmonica, special 20.
--It is very easy to get a sound out of. (I mean, have you ever tried to play a saxophone or even a clarinette?)
Since you will be encouraged by the experience, rather than frustrated by attempting to play other instruments, you are more likely to continue.
--It is a wind instrument and requires you to learn proper breathing. "Breathing affects how your music gets through - transmits. What gets transmitted is the quality of the note", says EJ.
In a non wind instrument, you are actually somewhat removed from it.
Important safety tips:
Do not blow too hard.
Do not share wind instruments.
Don't sit on it.
The pictures below are not intended as a full tutorial, but I did find them very useful to get started.
Here is a picture of a diatonic C harmonica.
This here is a chromatic harmonica.
This is how you hold a harmonica.
It's still there....
You can both breathe in and get a sound...
...as well as breathe out and get a sound. In fact, you need to do both.
EJ sounding out the key, and here he is looking at the list of keys compatible with a particular track.
Playing and giving space...
Giving time....and playing.
You need to feel the rhythm and listen to the other players.
"You will need to cultivate a sense of timing and what is appropriate in the space".
Now, isn't that true ....
And how do you get to Carnegie Hall?
PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE
