Rock 'n' Blues Harmonica [With CD]

I really enjoyed this book. Jon really understands what the blues, and particularly what blues harp is all about and knows how to explain it to you in an exciting and interesting way. Much of the essence of the book seems to be that blues is about creating and resolving tension by knowing which draw notes to accent- (particularly in 2nd position.) I realize that he isn't the first to "define" blues in such a manner, but rather the first author to clearly show you how each note can be used to effectivly create and resolve tension so essential in this style of playing. I also liked the emphasis on good tone. Clear tone after all, can make the difference between mediocre playing and excellent playing. Finally, what I really enjoyed was the CD that comes with the package, which allows you to shut off the instruction and jam with the band (or shut off the band and listen to the instruction). Jon has a really exciting-somewhat offbeat teaching style that really makes it fun to learn from. This book is not big on theory-though he generally teaches you enough to get by. ( for more a great introduction to this very important subject I highly reccomend reading "Music Theory Made Simple", by David Harp. I would have liked to have seen some more information of position play..particularly third position. (..sorry...I just can't seem to get enough of those minor blues!)For those serious about learning blues harmonica this is no doubt the book to get. Highly, highly reccomended.

I just started blowing on a harp I picked up and wanted something to learn some simple blues by. Although the premise of the book is a story of some cave men who learned the harmonica, there is a great deal of information here. I even found it a bit inspirational. I would recommend to those of you with a sense of humor who want to start learning for fun. If you are looking for strictly technical don't buy it.

It was a birthday present from my sister and I use it all the time. I think if you want to learn to play harmonica, this is a great way to start.

This book is a wonderful blend of music lesson and story-telling. If you get hung up on something technical, there is plenty of lore to pull you through the rough spots and keep up your interest. Who knew making music could be so easy, and so much fun?