Constructing a Solo on the Diatonic Harmonica

Hello, my name is Matt. In this lesson, we're going to be looking at constructing a solo on the diatonic harmonica using the root notes of the chords that the accompaniment is playing.

Overview

• Instruments: Guitars, bass, piano, etc.
• Chords Involved: Only three chords
• Root Notes on Harmonica:
  • 2 draw: G (most common)
  • 4 blow: C
  • 4 draw: D

The 12 Bar Blues

For the first four bars of a simple 12-bar blues, we have:

• Bars 1-4: G (2 draw)
• Bars 5-6: C (4 blow)
• Bars 7-8: G (2 draw)
• Bar 9: D (4 draw)
• Bar 10: C (4 blow)
• Bars 11-12: G (2 draw)

If you just play the root notes, it can be extremely dull. However, you can start to embroider it, adding one or two extra notes to add character.

Adding Additional Notes

• If you play just the root notes, it's pretty dull.
• By incorporating adjacent notes (notes next door), you can create something more interesting.

Remember, it's all based around the root notes of the chords.

The Importance of Listening

• It's not strictly necessary to count; the more you listen to 12-bar blues, the more you'll anticipate chord changes.
• Most blues follows the 12-bar pattern. Keep listening to what other harmonica players are doing.

By doing this, you'll develop a better understanding of when to change and how to make your playing sound more interesting.

Practical Application

Now, let's put this into practice!

• I will go back to the pub and drag the band out again.
• We'll play two 12-bar progressions, and I will construct two solos based on the root notes of the chords, keeping it straightforward.

After a count of four...
1, 2, 3, 4!

Adding Bends

As you learn to make successful bends on the harmonica, you can add these to your playing as well. Bends provide more options and directions to explore, allowing you to create interesting riffs.

Examples of bends included with root notes:

• 2 draw
• 4 blow
• 4 draw

Once you master those note bends, you can incorporate them into any other formula used to construct a solo.

For instance, in the previous lesson using the blues scale, you can add bends to enhance its lyrical quality.

Final Thoughts

Bends can be difficult, but they are worth persevering with as they open up many more possibilities in your playing. Happy practicing!