How to Buy a Harmonica

Ever wanted to be just like the legends? Whether it's jazz, blues, or Billy Joel, a harmonica purchase will jump start your music career. There are a few things you need to know before you journey forth on your hunt for the perfect harmonica.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Decide which type of harmonica is right for you. There are three styles of harmonica: diatonic, tremolo and chromatic. For a better understanding of each of these, check out the website http://www.suzukimusic.co.uk/harmonicas/harmonica-faq.htm. Suzuki has good descriptions of each kind. For beginners, the diatonic harmonica is highly recommended. A diatonic has ten holes and is a fairly easy instrument on which to learn.
2. Choose a key. As if three kinds of harmonica wasn't enough variety, harmonicas also come in different keys! The most common key is C and you will have the most luck finding instructional booklets and sheet music in the key of C.
3. Determine which material you would like your harmonica to be made from. Harmonicas come in plastic, wood and metal. Any of these are fine for beginners, but serious harmonica players tend to prefer metal over plastic and wood because they claim wood and plastic leak too much air.
4. Budget for your harmonica purchase. The instrument has a huge range in price, but most harmonica experts suggest spending the few extra dollars to get a quality machine. You will find harmonicas starting at $5 to $10, but consider spending around $35 to get the most bang for your buck.
5. Browse and comparison shop before buying. Book stores and hobby shops will sell harmonicas at affordable prices, and even throw in a beginner songbook with the purchase. This might be a good option for younger learners, or for those who aren't sure if they will be life long harmonica players. For more serious beginners, a music specialty shop or instrument retailer will offer mid- to high-end harmonicas (not to mention plenty of advice from the employees)!
6. Do not preoccupy yourself with the brand of harmonica. Plenty of instrument makers have quality harmonicas. Hohner is the most well-known brand of harmonica, but plenty of others are just as wonderful. As long as you make an informed decision, you will be very happy with your purchase.

Tips & Warnings

• It is not necessary to buy five different harmonicas to get five different keys. Many harmonica brands offer replacement reed plates so you can use the same harmonica and plug in different keys.
• It is a good idea to purchase sheet music or beginner songbooks along with your new harmonica. Not only will you need these to get started, but they will help encourage you to learn the instrument. If you buy your machine at a book store, toy store or hobby shop, music may be included. If you buy your harmonica at a music shop, they might throw in some sheet music to pump you up!
• Never buy a used harmonica! Websites will offer used harmonicas for cheap rates, but this is highly discouraged. A harmonica is used constantly by someone's mouth and there are a number of sanitary issues that arise when passing around this musical instrument. Even allowing someone to borrow your harmonica is probably not a great idea.