About a Harmonica

A harmonica is a small, rectangular musical instrument. A harmonica has a row of reeds connected to air holes. The harmonica is played by forcing either exhalations or inhalations into or out of the air holes. A harmonica is also referred to as a mouth organ or a mouth harp.

History

The harmonica is thought to have been invented in 1829 by Friedrich Buschmann of Berlin, Germany. Buschmann named the instrument he invented the Mundäoline. The harmonica was originally produced in Germany, and Germany continues to be the main production location.

Features

The reeds of the harmonica are contained in a small, rectangular outer case. The harmonica case can be made of either metal or wood. Each reed has an air hole connected to it. The harmonica player either blows air into the air holes or sucks air through the air holes to create different notes and sounds.

Benefits

Because a basic harmonica is inexpensive and quite small, it can be an easy instrument for anyone to learn successfully and quickly, even children. The harmonica can be used to play many different styles of music and complements other instruments well.

Types

The most commonly played harmonica is called a diatonic major harp harmonica created in the key of C major. This is the most popular kind of harmonica for people learning to play the instrument. A C-major key harmonica can play the entire C-major scale. A quality harmonica of this kind can typically be purchased for less than $25.

Trivia

Many presidents enjoyed playing the harmonica. Both Calvin Coolidge and Woodrow Wilson are said to have been accomplished harmonica players who played often while they resided in the White House. Additionally, Ronald Reagan is reported to have played his harmonica when he was recovering from the assassination attempt on his life.