Great times for the harmonica

I’ve been reflecting on just how incredible it is to be a harmonica player right now. We are truly living in a golden age for this instrument. When I think back to when I started playing in the early 2000s, the landscape was so different. Today, we have resources and connections that I could only have dreamed of as a teenager.

Here are a few reasons why it’s a fantastic time to dive into the world of the harmonica:

1. Unlimited music and footage

In the early days, I had to borrow CDs from the library or buy them while traveling abroad. Now, whether you use Spotify, Apple Music, or Amazon, almost every legendary or rare recording is at your fingertips. And lots of new (for me) recordings still popup - things I did not know existed.

Beyond just listening, we now have YouTube. Being able to see video footage of players is a game-changer. You can study how they hold the instrument, which microphones they use, how they interact with the band, and even how they carry themselves on stage. It’s a masterclass available 24/7.

I remember when I had to order my first harmonica instruction videos on VHS all the way from the US. By the time I paid for the tape and the shipping to Sweden, a single one- or two-hour lesson would often cost me around $75 USD. It was a huge investment! Today, I follow those same legendary artists online and get inspiration directly from their social media channels for free. The barrier to entry has completely vanished.

2. High-quality practice tools

I remember when backing track books or CDs cost 40 or 50 dollars for just a dozen tracks. Today, you can go on YouTube, type in any key or style of blues, and find a professionally produced track to jam along with for hours. It’s an amazing way to develop your skills and have fun without the high cost.

3. A global community

When I started, I was the only player in my village besides my dad. To find "harmonica friends," I had to travel an hour away to Malmö. Now, we have a global community. Through Facebook, Instagram, and Patreon, I can connect with players from different genres, traditions and generations every single day. I love getting messages from "harmonica nerds" all over the world asking questions or sharing their progress. Whether it’s online or at real-life festivals and conventions, the community is alive and cooking.

4. Innovation and availability

In the past, I was limited to whatever my local music shop had in stock. If they didn't have a specific key or brand, I was out of luck.

Today, the variety is incredible. Manufacturers are pushing the limits of innovation, and the quality of out-of-the-box harmonicas has improved drastically in just the last five to ten years. You can find almost any model, tuning, or even color online and have it shipped right to your door.

5. Master technicians and customizers

We also have a growing world of harmonica customizers and repair technicians. When I started, I only knew of two: Joe Filisko and my mentor, Dick Sjoeberg. Today, there are dozens of professionals all over the world who can help you repair reeds or tune your instrument so you don't always have to buy new gear. These technicians are pushing the mechanical limits of what the harmonica can do, and I love discussing the "mechanics" of the harp with them. You can also learn harmonica repair and service online from courses.

6. Endless learning material

The educational resources available now are fascinating. You can:

• Enroll in online harmonica academies.

• Take private lessons via video call.

• Find local teachers through the internet.

• Search YouTube for specific techniques like "6-hole overblows" or "2-hole draw bend" and find hundreds of free lessons.

If someone had told 14-year-old me that this world would exist in 25 years, I don’t know if I would have believed them. But here we are. It is easier than ever to learn, connect, and get inspired.

My hope is that we continue to learn from each other, respect each other, and bring more harmonica music into the world. Now, put down your phone or computer, pick up your harp, and go play!

Best,
Filip

This post was adapted from a recent vlog where I talk about this subject. You can watch the full video below: