Campfire Harmonica Songs
For those new to harmonica and more experienced players. We’ll start with warm up excercises for scales, train rhythms and special effects. You’ll learn harmonica friendly arrangements of songs and how to use double notes, bluesy effects, and play melodic phrases in higher or lower octaves. No matter your skill level, harmonica is a great instrument to get an aerobic workout, reduce stress, and explore the joy of making your own music. You will need a ten hole Diatonic Harmonica in the key of C.
Thad Beach
4 day workshop- June 2, 9, 16, 23 7:00-7:50 p.m
Minimum 3; Maximum 25
Ability to read written song lyrics and corresponding harmonica notation numbers 1-10. Musical note reading ability not required.
Harmonica Options
A standard tuned ten hole diatonic harmonica in the key of C.
Higher cost generally equals sturdier construction, easier to play and may last longer.
The following examples may be available at the local music stores.
Hohner Blues Band Key of C ( around $10 +)
Lee Oskar Major Diatonic Key of C. ( $49 )
Hohner Special 20 - Major Diatonic Key of C. ( $55 +)
A folder to keep handouts and a pencil for note taking.
This 4 session Monday evening workshop will give you time to process and work on the techniques, exercises and songs presented each week.
We will meet in the Watson Room at 7 p.m.
Topics include :
The harmonica : understanding how it works, the notes, good playing habits and keeping your instrument in good playing shape.
How to understand a harmonica tabulature notation system.
Ways to hold the harmonica, breath control, making single notes, double notes, tongue blocking, wails , bends, train rhythms and special effects to add to your musical vocabulary..
Becoming familiar with the songs by learning the words, rhythm, singing and playing the melodies on the harmonica.
Keeping a solid rhythmic foundation for the songs.
Playing scales, melodies and phrases in higher and lower octaves of the harmonica.
As you become comfortable with the above techniques and approach, you can create your own special arrangements of songs and continue to develop your harmonica skills .
