How easy is it to learn to play the harmonica

Learning to play basic tunes is fairly easy and you should be playing within a day or two. However, to play really well will take a lot more practice.

Which is easier to learn on, the diatonic or chromatic harmonica

Probably, the diatonic harmonica, as it only has 10 blow and 10 draw notes. The chromatic on the other hand usually has 12 blow and 12 draw notes, then a further set of 24 notes with the slide depressed. Both harmonicas need a lot of practice to play really well and, the chromatic is versatile in playing complicated melodies, whereas the diatonic is favoured by blues and rock and roll players.

Can I learn on a chromatic harmonica

Yes you can, however, many beginners chose to learn on the ten hole diatonic first, because it costs less than a chromatic.

What is the difference between a diatonic and a chromatic harmonica

The main difference is the note layout, the diatonic is tuned in one key, e.g. A, Bb and C etc, and some notes are missing from the scale in holes 1 -3 and 8-10, it only has a full scale (octave) from holes 4 – 7. The 12 hole chromatic for example, has 3 complete scales and, with the aid of the slide, sharp and flat notes can be played, which makes it possible to play in any key. The chromatic is more versatile, as it is not restricted to playing in one key.

Which key of harmonica should I chose, to learn on

The key of C is a good choice, and most tutor books feature the C harmonica. Also if you learn to play on a C diatonic harmonica, you can play in any other key because the note intervals are the same. The key of C is also a good choice of key for the chromatic harmonica.

What is the best make of harmonica

This is subjective and down to personal choice, as most long established makers, such as Hohner, Lee Oskar, Seydel, Suzuki and Tombo, produce high quality and reliable instruments.

Harmonicas Direct, the Leading Harmonica Specialist

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We stock the most extensive range of harmonicas from all the major manufacturers including, Hohner, Seydel, Suzuki, Tombo, Lee Oskar and Blues Buddy. We also have harmonica accessories, including effect pedals and amplifiers by the Lone Wolf Blues Co., including a large variety of microphones, replacement reed plates for most harmonicas, spare parts and tutor books. Harmonicas Direct send to most countries in the world.

We offer friendly advice, reliable service and fast delivery.

How easy is it to learn to play the harmonica
Learning to play basic tunes is fairly easy and you should be playing within a day or two. However, to play really well will take a lot more practice.

Which is easier to learn on, the diatonic or chromatic harmonica
Probably, the diatonic harmonica, as it only has 10 blow and 10 draw notes. The chromatic on the other hand usually has 12 blow and 12 draw notes, then a further set of 24 notes with the slide depressed. Both harmonicas need a lot of practice to play really well and, the chromatic is versatile in playing complicated melodies, whereas the diatonic is favoured by blues and rock and roll players.

Can I learn on a chromatic harmonica
Yes you can, however, many beginners chose to learn on the ten hole diatonic first, because it costs less than a chromatic.

What is the difference between a diatonic and a chromatic harmonica
The main difference is the note layout, the diatonic is tuned in one key, e.g. A, Bb and C etc, and some notes are missing from the scale in holes 1 -3 and 8-10, it only has a full scale (octave) from holes 4 – 7. The 12 hole chromatic for example, has 3 complete scales and, with the aid of the slide, sharp and flat notes can be played, which makes it possible to play in any key. The chromatic is more versatile, as it is not restricted to playing in one key.

Which key of harmonica should I chose, to learn on
The key of C is a good choice, and most tutor books feature the C harmonica. Also if you learn to play on a C diatonic harmonica, you can play in any other key because the note intervals are the same. The key of C is also a good choice of key for the chromatic harmonica.

What is the best make of harmonica
This is subjective and down to personal choice, as most long established makers, such as Hohner, Lee Oskar, Seydel, Suzuki and Tombo, produce high quality and reliable instruments.