How to Play the Blues on a Harmonica

Playing the blues can be a delightful experience, and learning the harmonica can be fun. The harmonica makes us think of the old west or pioneer times, and you can entertain a crowd if you know how to do it right. Playing the harmonica does not have to be a difficult experience if you have the right teacher. Learn how to play the blues on a harmonica.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Harmonica

1. Purchase a harmonica from a music store or look for one in a thrift shop. Harmonicas are not as common as they used to be and it might be a bit hard to find them in your local shops.

2. Buy and listen to blues music so you can get the feel for the music. Practice tapping to the beat so you can really feel the heart of the blues and then practice with the harmonica by breathing through the harmonica. Avoid sucking or blowing in the beginning.

3. Practice playing a few notes on the harmonica by blowing into the chords. If you feel dizzy stop for a bit and try again. Notice any chord changes as you listen to the music and then make them as you hear the music. It is always good to start by mimicking the blues before you set your own tune.

4. Make sure you do your counts right. Count 1,2,3,4 to get the right 4/4 chords that blues music has. Make sure to enhance the shuffle rhythm which is 2 and 4. Blow in and suck in when possible. This technique is called chugging and it will create a variety of notes.

5. Use your body and clap your hand to your leg, clap both hands or tap your feet to the beat that is coming from your harmonica. Soon you will be playing your harmonica perfectly and making your own lyrics and blues.