Harmonica Resources

New harmonica students like the instrument (obviously), but perhaps don't know so much about. Here is a guide for what the buy, what to listen to, what to read. 

1) A 10 hole harmonica

Well, obviously. Get one in the key of C, otherwise you won't be able to follow the lessons. Avoid the very cheapest ones, they leak, they are hard to play, they will hold you back. I recommend the Seydel Session Steel

2) Harmonica Albums

If you don't love harmonica music, you have chosen the wrong instrument. My recommendations for starting your collection (if you haven't already) are below. These recordings are all on Spotify

1) Little Walter His Best  - The Chess 50th Anniversary Collection: Little Walter is generally considered the most influential blues harmonica player.
2) Dennis Gruenling - Up All Night; One of the greatest modern era blues harmonica players.
3) Big Walter Horton with Carey Bell: As your playing develops, and you learn more about tone, you will understand why Walter Horton was considered by many to be the greatest.
4) Mark Graham - Southern Old-Time Harmonica: Very different to regular blues harmonica. If Mark Graham doesn't get your toes tapping, there is something wrong with your feet
5) Four - Blues Traveller: This is a harder rocking album. John Popper has a modern harmonica sound, and has inspired many younger players.

3) Harmonica Info

The Harmonica Academy Library will keep you engaged for quite a while, and will answer many basic (and not so basic) question. You'll find it here