Learning to play blues on the harp

[edith-zonneveld]

I like to play several kinds of music on the harp and now I have been started learning to play blues on the harp. I use the book “Learn how to play blues on your harp” from I. Mac Perry. According to the Jazz Harp Foundation this is a good book although it is a pitty that they only use the key of F.

I wonder how many of you play the blues and which method you use(d) to learn it. I have read on the internet that the keys they use the most in blues are C, F, Bb and G. Which key(s) do you use?

In the near future I hope I am able to join blues jam sessions. What is the best way to achieve this goal?

Thanks in advance for all your advice!

[Trista Hill]

Hi, Edith! I’m part of the Jazz Harp Foundation — so glad you’ve been using the resources!

Your post reminded me of a message that came out from Deborah Henson-Conant in May of this year. She’s putting together a project that specifically addresses playing the blues on the harp. She says:

“…read the blurb below and then go to the link, fill out the questionnaire and submit it — that way (you will) get onto the list for potential volunteers.

I’m writing a series of simple Blues for harp. I need a volunteer research team to help me test the music. I made a form explaining the project & for team applicants. I’d love some folks to test the form itself, whether you play harp or not. To do that, click this link – and let me know if the form is clear, missing anything, etc. (And you can fill it out just for fun if you want) Thanks!

http://joymonteverdi.wufoo.com/forms/harp-research-team-for-blues-project/“

Have fun with this!

[adam-b-harris]

If you are interested in sitting in with other players at blues sessions its a good idea to get familiar with playing in E and A because blues is historically a guitar type thing and they like to play in sharp keys. I wouldn’t say F and Bb are a waste of time, particularly if you intend on playing with horn players but best to concentrate on the sharp keys.

Google “open mic night” and “your town/district” hopefully you can find a session near you.

good luck, adam

[jessica-wolff]

Edith, I just bought that book!

[edith-zonneveld]

Trista, thanks for sending this information. My harp teacher and I have sent the form and we hope we can join the blues harp research team together.

Adam, thank you for these 2 keys. I shall look at these too.

Jessica, I think it’s a nice book with lots of information. For me it’s great I can discuss and try things with the help of my teacher. Please let me know if you have problems reading this book and playing the blues. Together we must have – or find – the answers!

[Susan Ottzen]

Which Blues Harp book were you talking about on the Blues Harp thread?

[jessica-wolff]

The one mentioned in the very first post.

[edith-zonneveld]

I’s the book “Learn how to play blues on your harp” from I. Mac Perry.

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