Beginning Harmonica: Recommended Extras
What else do you need besides a good harmonica to get started? Not much really, but here are some "Recommended Extras" and accessories. And lucky you, some you may already have.
- Mirror- A mirror can be your best friend. It allows you to see if what you think you're doing correctly is actually what you are doing. This is the next best thing to the feedback a private teacher could give you by watching you play in person. Check in the mirror to monitor how relaxed you look, whether or not your head is in a normal position (not hanging down or tilted to one side), proper hand positions when holding, and whether you are moving the harmonica instead of moving your head when going between holes.
Use a mirror for instant visual feedback.
- Recording Device (i.e. your computer, smart phone, etc.)- A recording device can also be your best friend. It allows you to actually hear if what you think you're doing correctly is actually correct (especially important for learning to play single notes and bending). This is the next best thing to the feedback a private teacher could give you by listening to you in person. When you record yourself, give it a day or two before you listen back. This way you can listen to it a bit more objectively (we tend to either be too hard on ourselves or too easy).
Many computers come with basic recording software and smart phones typically have a "Memos" app for recording. You can also find and download freeware and shareware recording software from the Internet. Combine the computer software with a USB microphone, which are fairly inexpensive, and you will have a great set-up for simple recordings.
- Patience- Take your time. The harmonica is deceptively difficult. Try not to spend your time worrying about how good you're becoming. Have fun with it. If you had never played tennis before but wanted to get started, you couldn't expect to go out and win matches without some basic instruction, lots of practice, some passage of time for things to sink in, and lots more practice.
- Full Membership at Harmonica Lessons.com- In addition to the complete beginning instruction with Lesson Plans and 'Beginners Shortcuts', you have access to in-depth technique instruction, over 100 Tabs & Song Lessons, Discussion Forums, Blues Improv, Advanced Techniques, Scales and Theory, 85 CDs listed with Song and Harmonica Keys, and more. Click here to become a member or for more info.
This is a big website. In order to use it effectively and efficiently, you'll want to read the next Using the Site page for suggestions on how to get the most out of your time spent here.
