Blues Harp/Harmonica?

I'm going to start taking up the harmonica...any online sites that can teach me how to get started? What should be the first Harmonica that I buy?

Get a "C" harp

Don't get the cheapest thing available. There are some $5 pieces of garbage that are not proper diatonic harmonicas.

I suggest starting with a "moderately" priced harp like the hohner big river or the Pocket Pal if money is an issue. If you have the dough, I suggest a Hohner Special 20.

I disagree with the person above who advises against learning online. youtube is overflowing with harmonica instruction right now. (Unfortunately you'll have to figure out which videos are good on your own). There are videos up there by some of the TOP pro's.

The best books IMHO are by Jon Gindick and David Barrett

The best videos on youtube are by "ronnieshellist" "jamcamp06" (gindick) and "kudzurunner" (Adam Gussow). I made a beginner video too. You may find it helpful. "12gagedan"

Whoever said "listen" is right on. Find music you like. Find harp sounds that you want to DO. You won't learn it unless you practice. You won't practice unless you love it.

Feel free to email me or any of the instructors on youtube with any questions. They're all nice guys.

Hohner Marine Band or Special 20 key of D, A, or C

I recommend cds/dvds over online sites. You will want the ability to repeat info. over & over. More convenient with media you have direct access to. Try Tom Ball. One of the absolute best harp players past or present. Also try Tony "Little Son" Glover, Jon Gindick. Best advice I can give listen, listen, listen to EVERYONE. Seeing someone live is particularly informative.

GOOD LUCK :)

Buy the cheapest one you can get, and get some online instruction.(harmonicalessons.com) You'll find out fast if it's for you. The rapid breathing and timing may not be for you. If you think you want to pursue it get a Hohner marine band harmonica for about $20 and go for it.

I agree: go SEE someone "live" play! The Godfather of Blues Harp is Little Walter Jacobs on Chess records in the blues section...he played on all the 1950's classic Muddy Waters songs but he has cd's out under his own name...other good classic players: James Cotton, Junior Wells, Kim Wilson, Paul Butterfield but THEY all got their inspiration from Little Walter Jacobs

Hofner Echo Vamper save money put an album on or now a cd and go with the harpman your listening to.Thats the way I picked up and played the harp.I've been lucky enough to be with Doctor Ross The Harmonica Boss and others but they are all taking their leave from us sad days sad times.....TM