How Does the Harmonica Work?
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As a wind-blown instrument, a harmonica functions basically on the direction of air blown from the user. A harmonica can be split into three basic parts: the comb, the reed-plate and the cover plates.
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The comb is the main body of the harmonica. It holds the chambers that shield the reeds. Combs are typically made from metal or plastic. The combs are designed to specifically direct air.
The reed-plate is the grouping of several reeds in a location. Composed of metal and plastic, reeds are fixed to the reed-plate in such a way that they either respond to the blowing of air or the suction of it.
The cover plates shield the reed-plates and are built from metal. Cover plates can be open or enclosed. Enclosed cover-plates give the harmonica a louder quality of tone. -
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When a harmonica player positions his lips on the instrument, he either blows air or inhales it. When air passes through the harmonica, the reeds inside vibrate at specific frequencies and produce notes. Blowing air creates a note and sucking air on the same reed creates an alternate note. With this design, 19 notes can be played on a harmonica. Players can blend notes by sliding their mouth and air flow across several reeds.
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