Harmonica For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Learn to:

• Play right out of the box, with little or no experience
• Create exciting rhythms and make that wonderful wailing sound
• Bend notes like a pro
• Play along with harmonica songs online and hear the sound you’re going for

Make music with the harmonica using this fun and easy guide

Even if you’ve never gotten your hands on a harmonica, this easy-to-follow and friendly guide makes it possible—and easy—to start making those unmistakable, signature sounds straight out of the box. Packed with tips, tools, and instructions, Harmonica For Dummies will have you playing all kinds of musical styles on this instrument in a flash!

• Start your harmonica experience — find expert guidance on shopping for a harmonica, making your first sounds, finding the key of a song, and exploring rhythm basics
• Craft your skills — start playing chords and single notes, shape your sound with your throat and hands, enhance your notes with your tongue on the harp, and bend notes down and up
• Take position — discover how positions help your playing, develop flair and speed, master new songs, and start playing along with music to master your skills
• Find your style — whether it’s blues and rock, country tunes, or fiddlin’ the night away with folk and Celtic songs, discover the many musical styles you can play on the harmonica
• Put it all together — put your music out into the world with guidance on arranging and adding vocals to your tunes, working with a band, and amplifying your sound

Open the book and find:

• Guidance on counting time
• The scoop on relaxation, breathing, and rhythm
• Ways to combine chords and melodies
• Develop a repertoire of tunes
• The importance of practicing persistence
• The secrets of playing overblows and overdraws
• How to use effects to alter a harmonica’s sound
• Tips for maintaining and improving the performance of your harmonicas