Re: [Harp-L] Hello! Beginner - Interested in Blues

[Roy Germon <rgermon@xxxxxxxxxx>]

If you just want to play around by yourself, C is a
fine key.  Any key is fine really, but probably best
to stay away from the very high (F) and very low (G)
keys.  If you want to play along with a band, or play
along with CDs, you'll need to be in key.  "E" is a
very common key for blues.  Most blues albums with
harp will have some songs in E, however blues in "E"
is typically played on an "A" harp.  This is called
cross-harp, and gives you better access to the blues
scale notes.

Some people like Hering, and some people dont.  All
depends on what model it is.  A free harp is always
worth the money though.

RoyG
 --- Harvey Beasley <harvey.jr@xxxxxxxxx> wrote: 
> Hello everyone,
> 
> I am brand new to the list.
> 
> I have the opportunity to get a free Hering 10 hole
> harmonica as a gift.
> 
> I am interested in blues, though I have absolutely
> no experience.  I
> am playing classical guitar now, just a beignner,
> but otherwise little
> music experience.
> 
> I have heard that the key of "C" is apporpriate for
> beignners, but I
> have also heard that "E" is used in more blues
> songs.
> 
> If I am really just going to play around, and
> memorize a few blues
> songs... would you recommend this harp?  Which key
> would you suggest?
> 
> I have also seen on the net that Hering isn't really
> a high quality
> harmonica.  Should I skip this free harmonica
> attempt (and get
> something else) and later pick up a hohner when I am
> more serious?
>