I’m looking for a book to help me with my technique. I’m still a beginner and not dedicated to any particular style. I’m considering Harmonica for Dummies, but I’m wondering if that might have more general info than I need. I’m also thinking about Levy’s book, Rhythms of the Breath, but wonder if it might be too hard for me at this stage.
I’d appreciate any thoughts, or other book suggestions. Thank you.
I recommend just playing. Start with simple tunes (Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, She’ll be coming round the mountain’, etc) and just play. Build on that and learn the techniques as you need them (which usually is single notes > bending> tongue blocking> etc)
Books are great, but you can’t hear a book. I highly recommend watching YouTube content on how to play, as this gives you a reference point to replicate what you heard.
@wannago I agree with @Dk360 playing is the best. However, if you want or need a book. The Dummies one is a very good one. It also comes with videos and audio tracks to help you learn what to do. I highly recommend this book, Winslow Yerxa did a great job on it.
Definitely wait until your skills have advanced before spending your money on Levy’s book. The book is good, but not for beginners or even most intermediate level players.
The “Dummies” book(s) is/are quite good and the videos & audios are very much what you need. As mentioned: books alone just don’t really help much compared to videos – and simply playing, playing and playing some more !!