I started with a C like everyone and after a year or so I bought a full set (G, A, Bb, C, D, E). It was just one type of harp (Suzuki Bluesmaster) but ultimately it was cheaper than buying one at a time and I like the Bluesmaster. Now I just have to fill in the odd keys here and there. Rockin Ron’s has a ton of full sets on his website from various brands, and even has a few sets where it’s three or four different brands all put together but in different keys so you can see what you like best. Lots of options.
I'm with you. I much prefer wood to plastic. My first wood comb harp was a Hohner MS Blues in D which I bought because I needed a D ASAP and the local music store was out of that key in SP20. I really started digging wood combs after that. And then I tried an MB, and yeah, it is the "bee's knees".
I started with a G, then a C. Both Suzuki blues master. One of the draw reeds broke on my G. I’m going to give a Suzuki manji a try. Next harp I might try a wood comb. Still lots to learn on the C and G
Tom'in just bought a Will Wilde tuned bd harmonica..Will has a tutorial on how to play Lazy...I will make a video for the school when I am done...cannot say enough how great your intermediate course is ....having sooooo much fun...see you Wednesday...peace
Bang on as usual Tomlin. Also bear in mind that different keys, and therefore different reed lengths bend easier than others. I find a d needs more precision for me a beginner, than an A. But we gotta suss 'em all out eventually. The wood/plastic comment is very true to my exoerience after 11 months as a beginner too. Just enjoy the learning journey and find a woodshed to make some noise in.
Thanks for the info. I have tried Horner Melody Makers. The do have a good feel in my hands but not my mouth. I have one Sydel with steel reeds. It has a different sound and feel. Little breath will make it play easily. I have a whole set of Lee Oscars. Your videos have helped me un learn some bad habits. I play mostly melodys and blue grass music. I was at an impasse and ready to quit after playing for seven years and still on first position. But i really love playing harp. After finding your videos, I am giving my playing more focus on the basics. I haven't exactly been very patient with myself. Wanting to be a good player fast. but harmonica doesn't work that way. And as an older person, it takes that much longer to learn things right. Thanks so very much, Ronda
Tomlin, thanks. The interesting part of your video was your preference for wooden comb harps vs. plastic combs. What I've found is that the plastic comb harp that I have, a Hohner Special 20, the holes are ever so slightly smaller and closer together compared to my Hohner Blues Harp wooden comb harps. It causes me a little trouble switching to it. I have a set of 7 Blues Harps and have already replaced the C once. I prefer wooden comb harps over plastic and I thought I was just too inexperienced to know better. Thanks.
a stone I would say as soon as you feel capable of playing along to some records - if not sooner. Unless you are playing mainly folk music (often in the key of G) you'll find that A, D and then Bb harps are used most often in blues songs, followed by C. Like Tomlin said, they all feel different as well so you'll want to play a variety just to get better.
Decisions! I really want to get a crossover as I have a special 20 but as I still 5 months in to your beginner course, I worry I wouldn't really use the crossover if I got it in another key as the course is aimed towards the key of c.
I bought myself a C marine band. Absolutely love it. Went from an old stand by and couldn’t believe the difference. Old standby is definetly a cheap piece of...... I do want to try the golden melody just because I enjoy playing tunes like a piano aswell as blues kind of stuff. But one thing Ive been messing around with is after watching some Adam gussow I saw him busking with a kick drum to keep the beat and was amazed at how when he pauses playing harmonica the drum keeps you engaged. I don’t have a drum kit but I do have garage band on my phone and it has some drum machines and 808 kind of stuff and I’ve found that really fun to experiment with, making a nice beat and playing harp over it. Kind of mixing modern hip hop/ electronic beats with blues. Just something I wanted to share!
@Tomlin Leckie: I have a question: I own 7 harps in the standard 1st position keys of A, Bb, C, D, E, F & G. I've been thinking about buying all the flat key harmonicas to cover anything in between. However, I also own an A-minor Lee Oskar. I was at a jam session recently, and the band started playing a blues in B-flat, so I couldn't comp in 2nd position, which was annoying. If I'd had an E-flat harp, I could have. What are the most common keys for a 12-bar blues other that those I have (E, F, G, A, B, C & D)? Should I buy all the flat keys in between? Or should I buy more minor-key harmonicas? What do you think?
Thank you. I'm begginer at playing harmonica and I'm learning english by myself on Internet, due this I need to read the video subtitle to understand you well. I'm training to improve my techniques for 6 months at now. I'd like to know: your begginers 4-weeks-course have subtitle at english?
Thank you for this video and for all your videos actually. I which you talked a bit about the Low C. you mentioned that you don't own one in the "bay Bay Bird" lesson. I'm a fan of low keys. so how can I get to know the Low C? can't find any interesting videos on TH-cam. Thanks anyway for all the effort you put in your video it is really inspiring.
@@TomlinHarmonica @MrSpanky2001 thanks! I've think I've read that 3rd is often used for minor music while 2nd is for major. Would that affect how my brother plays the guitar? Do you perhaps have some video talking about it that I can check out?
I've only been playing for under a year so I haven't played a lot of the supposedly higher quality harps out there but after starting on a Hohner Blues Band that wouldn't play above the 4th hole I purchased my first Lee Oskar and actually I'm quite happy with them so far. Dollar for dollar I feel they are one of the better quality harmonicas for a beginner who doesn't want to break the bank. Btw, my harp purchases went pretty much like you suggested. C, then an A, a D, and a Bb so far. So what key do you suggest next? Also far as brands go have you ever tried a Vox Continental? I'm curious about them.
Hi Austin, I think you might enjoy this video as it will answer all your questions about where to go next and why - th-cam.com/video/LmBhTzo0kWA/w-d-xo.html I've not tried the Vox continental I'm afraid...
I have been planning to buy my second harmonica. I have a Special20 in the key of C and I'm planning to buy a Marine Band Deluxe in the Key of A. But I'm having a hard time finding a Hohner Dealer/Distributor in India who sells Marine Band. I managed to track down one dealer (the one I bought the Special20 from) and he only has Special20s in different keys. He has the rest only in the key of C. Can you suggest some other good brands and models so I can try and track down some dealers?
I use Easttop t008k chinese harmonicas. I find them mutch better than some of my "expensives" harmos for a ridiculous price (10/13€ !!!). Generaly, the chinese harmonicas are pretty bad, but these ones are top quality. Kongsheng (another chinese brand) are cool, but not as good as Easttop in my opinion.These two brands are very good for a low budget beginner...
🎵 Just starting out on harmonica? Join my FREE Blues Harmonica Foundation Course here 👉 foxly.link/p5ugYk
Been using the A, D, C, in my set the most and haven't touched the E or G yet. The best part of new keys it it opens you up to new lessons
Very true!
I started with a C like everyone and after a year or so I bought a full set (G, A, Bb, C, D, E). It was just one type of harp (Suzuki Bluesmaster) but ultimately it was cheaper than buying one at a time and I like the Bluesmaster. Now I just have to fill in the odd keys here and there. Rockin Ron’s has a ton of full sets on his website from various brands, and even has a few sets where it’s three or four different brands all put together but in different keys so you can see what you like best. Lots of options.
Thanks for tricks, from Turkey. You are treasure for me. Thanks a lot. Peace...
Thanks for watching! Don’t forget to ‘Subscribe’ and turn on notifications to never miss another Harmonica video. :-)
My second harmonica was in the same key (C) but different brand, I just wanted to explore different brands and styles.
I'm with you. I much prefer wood to plastic. My first wood comb harp was a Hohner MS Blues in D which I bought because I needed a D ASAP and the local music store was out of that key in SP20. I really started digging wood combs after that. And then I tried an MB, and yeah, it is the "bee's knees".
I'm with you Adam :-)
I started with a G, then a C. Both Suzuki blues master. One of the draw reeds broke on my G. I’m going to give a Suzuki manji a try. Next harp I might try a wood comb. Still lots to learn on the C and G
Tom'in just bought a Will Wilde tuned bd harmonica..Will has a tutorial on how to play Lazy...I will make a video for the school when I am done...cannot say enough how great your intermediate course is ....having sooooo much fun...see you Wednesday...peace
Bang on as usual Tomlin. Also bear in mind that different keys, and therefore different reed lengths bend easier than others. I find a d needs more precision for me a beginner, than an A. But we gotta suss 'em all out eventually. The wood/plastic comment is very true to my exoerience after 11 months as a beginner too. Just enjoy the learning journey and find a woodshed to make some noise in.
That is a great point Andy. Working on different keys will make you much better at bending :-)
I have a G harmonica and would like to know how you rate it for playing
I suggest that a Bb is essential for a beginner blues player.
As a beginner. Why?
@@Amodia Because so many classic blues tunes that a beginner may wish to copy are played in Bit probably cons in 3d after C and A.
correction-last line should read "are played in Bb. It probably comes in 3d after C and A."
💯👌👍🏽
@@Harp_and_Guitar_Moving_Forward sorry Junk Finger-don't get your meaning.
Thanks for the info. I have tried Horner Melody Makers. The do have a good feel in my hands but not my mouth. I have one Sydel with steel reeds. It has a different sound and feel. Little breath will make it play easily. I have a whole set of Lee Oscars. Your videos have helped me un learn some bad habits.
I play mostly melodys and blue grass music. I was at an impasse and ready to quit after playing for seven years and still on first position. But i really love playing harp. After finding your videos, I am giving my playing more focus on the basics. I haven't exactly been very patient with myself. Wanting to be a good player fast. but harmonica doesn't work that way. And as an older person, it takes that much longer to learn things right. Thanks so very much, Ronda
So pleased to hear that you have been re-invigorated on harmonica Ronda - keep at it :-)
Tomlin, thanks. The interesting part of your video was your preference for wooden comb harps vs. plastic combs. What I've found is that the plastic comb harp that I have, a Hohner Special 20, the holes are ever so slightly smaller and closer together compared to my Hohner Blues Harp wooden comb harps. It causes me a little trouble switching to it. I have a set of 7 Blues Harps and have already replaced the C once. I prefer wooden comb harps over plastic and I thought I was just too inexperienced to know better. Thanks.
I would like my next ones to be a Seydel Noble diatonic in lowlowE, and a Seydel chromatic in C.
My next harp is being delivered today, a Hohner Rocket!! Can't wait!!
When would you recommend getting a second harmonica? After 6 months, 2 years...?
When it's time to learn something on a different key. The C may get boring after so long
a stone I would say as soon as you feel capable of playing along to some records - if not sooner. Unless you are playing mainly folk music (often in the key of G) you'll find that A, D and then Bb harps are used most often in blues songs, followed by C. Like Tomlin said, they all feel different as well so you'll want to play a variety just to get better.
Hi - I think after 6 months is probably a good point to start exploring other keys :-)
Decisions! I really want to get a crossover as I have a special 20 but as I still 5 months in to your beginner course, I worry I wouldn't really use the crossover if I got it in another key as the course is aimed towards the key of c.
Hi Dale, there is no harm doing the exercises from the Beginners Practice Guide in a different key :-)
@@TomlinHarmonica thank ok. I have ordered a crossover in the key of A, so pretty excited to give it a play
I bought myself a C marine band. Absolutely love it. Went from an old stand by and couldn’t believe the difference. Old standby is definetly a cheap piece of...... I do want to try the golden melody just because I enjoy playing tunes like a piano aswell as blues kind of stuff. But one thing Ive been messing around with is after watching some Adam gussow I saw him busking with a kick drum to keep the beat and was amazed at how when he pauses playing harmonica the drum keeps you engaged. I don’t have a drum kit but I do have garage band on my phone and it has some drum machines and 808 kind of stuff and I’ve found that really fun to experiment with, making a nice beat and playing harp over it. Kind of mixing modern hip hop/ electronic beats with blues. Just something I wanted to share!
That sounds awesome - I love the idea of electronic music (my other great love) and blues together!
I bought G. It's very interest. Thanks for confirmation of dependens betwen higf/low key and speed of response. Next one i think will be D))
@@anonim-hc7qj seydel session steel. I'm completely satisfied)
Nice!!
What are you playing in the start! thanks!!!
Hey Tomlin, what about a G. I hear they are good for chugging ,
I like that you started doing high quality videos for complete beginners but what about some advanced beginner or intermediate insights too?
💯
Hi Dániel, I'm focussing on Beginner lessons for the time being but there might be some more advanced ones in the future :-)
@Tomlin Leckie: I have a question: I own 7 harps in the standard 1st position keys of A, Bb, C, D, E, F & G. I've been thinking about buying all the flat key harmonicas to cover anything in between. However, I also own an A-minor Lee Oskar. I was at a jam session recently, and the band started playing a blues in B-flat, so I couldn't comp in 2nd position, which was annoying. If I'd had an E-flat harp, I could have.
What are the most common keys for a 12-bar blues other that those I have (E, F, G, A, B, C & D)? Should I buy all the flat keys in between? Or should I buy more minor-key harmonicas? What do you think?
Thank you. I'm begginer at playing harmonica and I'm learning english by myself on Internet, due this I need to read the video subtitle to understand you well. I'm training to improve my techniques for 6 months at now. I'd like to know: your begginers 4-weeks-course have subtitle at english?
Thank you for this video and for all your videos actually.
I which you talked a bit about the Low C. you mentioned that you don't own one in the "bay Bay Bird" lesson. I'm a fan of low keys. so how can I get to know the Low C? can't find any interesting videos on TH-cam.
Thanks anyway for all the effort you put in your video it is really inspiring.
Seydel big six in key of C
Seydel harmonicas in key of low D, E and F
Probably going to get the Seydel key of A and G harmonicas next.
As a beginner I don't know if I'm mistaken but can you also use a D harmonica in 3:rd position to play in E for playing with a guitar player?
That is correct. E=1st pos., A=2nd pos., D=3rd pos.
Absolutely :-)
@@TomlinHarmonica @MrSpanky2001 thanks!
I've think I've read that 3rd is often used for minor music while 2nd is for major. Would that affect how my brother plays the guitar?
Do you perhaps have some video talking about it that I can check out?
I've only been playing for under a year so I haven't played a lot of the supposedly higher quality harps out there but after starting on a Hohner Blues Band that wouldn't play above the 4th hole I purchased my first Lee Oskar and actually I'm quite happy with them so far. Dollar for dollar I feel they are one of the better quality harmonicas for a beginner who doesn't want to break the bank. Btw, my harp purchases went pretty much like you suggested. C, then an A, a D, and a Bb so far. So what key do you suggest next? Also far as brands go have you ever tried a Vox Continental? I'm curious about them.
Hi Austin, I think you might enjoy this video as it will answer all your questions about where to go next and why - th-cam.com/video/LmBhTzo0kWA/w-d-xo.html I've not tried the Vox continental I'm afraid...
"The bee's knees". Lol
😁
I have been planning to buy my second harmonica. I have a Special20 in the key of C and I'm planning to buy a Marine Band Deluxe in the Key of A. But I'm having a hard time finding a Hohner Dealer/Distributor in India who sells Marine Band. I managed to track down one dealer (the one I bought the Special20 from) and he only has Special20s in different keys. He has the rest only in the key of C. Can you suggest some other good brands and models so I can try and track down some dealers?
Hi Vishal, I like Seydel 1847s as well :-)
Why diatonics have only ten holes? Why not comprosed of 16holes)32reeds?
Second!
🐱👌
Well done! :-)
I use Easttop t008k chinese harmonicas. I find them mutch better than some of my "expensives" harmos for a ridiculous price (10/13€ !!!). Generaly, the chinese harmonicas are pretty bad, but these ones are top quality. Kongsheng (another chinese brand) are cool, but not as good as Easttop in my opinion.These two brands are very good for a low budget beginner...
I love my Eastops. They have a tonal quality that is as good as anything out there. I use them for all my gigs. They're great.
Good to know Thierry :-)
First!
Congrats!
@@TomlinHarmonica You play and teach some awesome blues bro. Keep up the good work. It's more important than you realise.