Mystery of the �Missing� Notes

“Why do I need to “bend” notes?” you may be wondering. This section will explain that. Look again at the diagram of the middle register. Beginning at hole # 4, follow the arrows to hole # 7. See the progression of the notes in the C-major scale, CDEFGABC. (Notice the slight variation at hole # 7. The pattern of play changes because you play a DRAW note first, then end on a BLOW note.) Now look at holes #1 through 3 on the diagram. The top or BLOW note on hole #1 is a “C”, and the DRAW note on the same hole is a “D”. This gives us a good start on the lower “C” scale. Look at hole # 2. On hole # 2, the BLOW note is an “E”, but the anticipated “F” on the DRAW note is a “G”. The “F” is missing! At hole # 3, yet another missing note! This time, it’s the “A”.

There is a reason some notes are missing. This allows you to play CHORDS. Chords are simply a group of notes that sound good when they are played together. Chords add beauty and dimension to your playing. (More about chords later.)

You will learn to play the missing notes on holes # 2 and 3 with the “bending” technique we mentioned in the last section. As you become proficient in bending, you will be able to play the available sharps and flats, those notes or half-steps, that lie between the notes in the scale. “C#” (C-sharp) for example, is the note halfway between a “C” and a “D.” It can also be written as “Db” (D-flat). If it is a half-step higher than the note, it is called a sharp. If it is a half-step lower than the note, it is called a flat, but it sounds the same. You will be spending considerable time learning to play the missing notes in the lower register.

If you look at the diagram on page 11 of "Harmonica Boot Camp" you can see all the notes, including the sharps and flats, that are possible by “bending” notes on holes one through six. You don’t need to memorize the diagram. Don’t worry about sharps and flats right now. There will not be a test. We just want you to know the capabilities of your little 10-hole diatonic. When it is combined with the skills you will master with practice, you will be amazed at the versatility of this humble little instrument!

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Harmonica Boot Camp!

What if you could buy a harmonica instruction book and audio cd package that was written entirely from the viewpoint of an absolute beginner?

With Dennis as instructor and Sandra as writer and narrator, our harmonica lessons teach you how to play harmonica and beyond, step-by-step .

This book and CD are designed for folks that range from absolute beginners with no musical knowledge to seasoned harmonica players who want to learn a better way to breathe, how to "bend" notes, and to read harmonica tablature.

Our easy harmonica lessons teach you how to play harmonica well, bend notes, play songs in first and second position, and master basic harmonica techniques.

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Mystery of the �Missing� Notes

Harmonica Boot Camp!