Hohner Echo

Hohner Echo or Diatonic Harmonica For The Beginner Player

Hohner Echo. There are mainly three kinds of harmonica - diatonic harmonica, chromatic harmonica and tremolo harmonica. Of all the three kinds, the most popular is the diatonic harmonica. The 10-hole diatonic harmonica is the simplest of all the harmonicas. This small and robust harmonica is also considered by many to be the best harmonica for beginners. In fact, it is deemed suitable for all music styles such as blues, country, rock, hymns, gospel, folk, spirituals and even classical music. It provides a soulful and bluesy tone that has the power of captivating million ears.

Hohner Echo Harmonica

If you are thinking you would like to play more of the folk or gospel type music instead of traditional blues then a 21 or 24-hole tremolo in C (such as the Hohner Echo Celeste or Suzuki Two-Timer) would be better. This is not a very popular style in the US though. If you find a decent deal on a 12, 14, or 16 hole diatonic then it will not hurt but all you need for most tutorial books and videos is the 10-hole diatonic.

Why diatonic is considered the best harmonica for beginners?

The diatonic harmonica is ideal for beginners as it is easier to learn than the other two kinds. Most music teachers prefer teaching harmonica to students on the basic 10-hole diatonic, to ensure their success.

As the diatonic harmonica centers on playing in one key, though it has the ability of playing in multiple keys makes it easy to play and ideal for beginners. In music, there are around 12 basic keys. Beginners are advised to begin playing with a harmonica in the key of C; as it plays all the white notes on the piano.

Learning how to play 'cross harp' is important for those who are trying to play harmonica in a blues style. In other words, it means that a Bb or F harmonica is used when the band is playing in C. In order to attain the bluesy sound, the scale's blue notes needs to be obtained by means of playing 'cross harp'. Therefore, A and D are the most useful harps for beginners as they enable beginners to 'cross harp' in the preferred keys of the guitarists.

In North America, a good quality 10-hole diatonic is a good starter. I would recommend the following, in the following order:

• Hohner Special 20: One of the most popular diatonic models. Completely airtight.
• Hohner Blues Harp: This is also part of Hohner's new Modular System. The wood resists swelling, and replacement reed plates are available for it.
• Hohner Marine Band: One of the most famous harmonicas, and is the oldest model among the others listed here. Its covered slots help towards a more bluesy sound and the new Deluxe Edition of it is made of wood which is resistant to swelling.

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