Chromatic Harmonica 101

This class focuses on theory, improvisation and chromatic harmonica fundamentals. Instructor covers the history of the instrument, its application in various genres and its use in countries around the world. Special guests are invited to perform and lecture. Prerequisites: Students must bring a functional, in-tune chromatic harmonica (minimum 3-octave model) as well as a music notebook to class. For questions about purchasing an instrument, or for any other concerns, please email instructor at winslow@jazzschool.com

Saturdays 11:45 am – 1:15 pm
WINSLOW YERXA  (10 weeks)  $365

Beginning Diatonic Harmonica

Diatonic harmonica is the small harmonica used in blues, rock, folk — and even in jazz. If you’re new to the harmonica or even to playing music, this course will get you started. Learn how to hold the instrument, breathe, play chords and single notes, and the rudiments of note bending. Learn to count time while you play rhythms and learn melodies that will show you where the notes are. Learn song forms such as twelve-bar blues and three-chord folk, rock, and country tunes. Get your feet wet with jamming and playing with guitar players and singers, and learn some basics of note reading and music theory.

Prerequisites: Students are required to bring a 10-hole diatonic harmonica in the key of C to class (email the instructor at winslow@jazzschool.com if you’re unsure of what to get).
Class text: Harmonica For Dummies

Saturdays 1:30 – 3 pm
WINSLOW YERXA (10 weeks) $365

Intermediate Harmonica Workshop

This class is for intermediate-level harmonica players — both chromatic and diatonic — who want to strengthen their abilities. Participants should already be able to play, bend notes, and improvise over a 12-bar blues. Class content will be tailored to the needs of the participants and may include improving tone, resonance, vibrato, and attack, bending and overblowing, extensions to position playing, developing speed, playing in minor keys, embouchure studies (including tongue blocking), effective use of scales and arpeggios in building licks and solos, ensemble etiquette, and microphone technique.
Bring any and all harmonicas, but be sure to have a C diatonic and/or a C chromatic.

Saturdays 3:15 – 4:45 pm
WINSLOW YERXA (10 weeks)  $365

Winslow Yerxa (chromatic and diatonic harmonica) is the author of Harmonicafor Dummies, a regular columnist for Harmonicasessions.com and Bluesharmonica. com, and a clinician and performer at the SPAH harmonica festival, World Harmonica Festival, Harmonica Masterclass™, and Jon Gindick’s Harmonica Jam Camp.