[Harp-L] History of Hohner Chrometta and Meisterklasse chromatics

[Winslow Yerxa <winslowyerxa@xxxxxxxxx>]

I'm working on an article and am wondering who might know some history on the 
Hohner Chrometta and Meisterklasse chromatics.

The German patent for the Chrometta dates to 1956, and shows a 12-hole 
instrument. But the product line has long included 8, 10, 12 and 14-holers. The 
Chrometta 10 and 14 C-harmonicas both start on G below Middle C.

Of course, the Meisterklasse chromatic is also a 14-holer that starts on G below 
Middle C.

Which came first as a C charmonica that starts on G below middle C? Did this 
start with one of the Chromettas, or was this added later after the 
Meisterklasse came out? 

And who knows the original years of production of the Meisterklasse chromatic? 
It was out of production for some years, and then reappeared around 1998.

Thanks to anyone who has actual information. You're free to guess, make up 
drinking games, or what you will, but I'm seeking actual knowledge.

Winslow
 Winslow Yerxa
Author, Harmonica For Dummies ISBN 978-0-470-33729-5
Harmonica instructor, The Jazzschool for Music Study and Performance
Resident expert, bluesharmonica.com
Columnist, harmonicasessions.com