[Harp-L] What key is the band in?

[Richard Hunter]

Ear training hasn't been mentioned in this thread, but it's something that
every novice should think about often.  Ear training is what enables you to
recognize the intervals between pitches, so that when you play a note on
your harmonica, you can more or less immediately tell whether the harp
you're holding is the right one for the song, and if not what the right one
is.

There are various ways to develop your ear. You can sing intervals like a
minor second, major second, perfect 4th or 5th, etc.  You can also listen
to records and figure out what notes the bass, or guitar, or harp is
playing in relation to the key of the song.  With blues, that's easier than
it might be with some other musics.  Over time, you learn to recognize
certain intervals immediately, at least in the context of the song that's
playing now.

Listening and analyzing what you've heard is as important as playing in
practice sessions.  I recall hearing Dennis Gruenling recommend that active
listening be part of every practice sessions.  It's good advice.  Improve
your ears, and at some point you'll be able to figure out what the key is
without asking.

Regards, Richard Hunter

-- 
"The Lucky One" 21st century rock harmonica project at
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/richard-hunter-s-the-lucky-one/x/5259889#/
Author, "Jazz Harp" (Oak Publications, NYC)
Latest mp3s and harmonica blog at http://hunterharp.com
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