Different Types of Harmonica (Diatonic vs. Tremolo)

In this harmonica lesson, Liam Ward teaches you about the differences between two types of harmonica: the tremolo harmonica and the diatonic harmonica (sometimes called a blues harp).

[poilean]

Sorry, to clarify something not explained in the video: each small hole you see is a note. They are in groups of four, rather than 2. In my experience as a tremolo player, you don't really play with 2. I only really do it if I want to do a build up (single reed, double reed, quadruple reed, octave is a common one). Really it's a shame that tremolo isn't popular here in the west, since there's so many techniques on the tremolo that you don't find diatonic players using.

[kishascape]

I picked up harmonica in japan so started on the 24 hole tremolo since that was more standard and it was pretty much possible to find diatonic. They were really expensive in comparison too.

[lass-inangeles]

Thank you, Steve! Although now I'm wondering what a Chromatic Harmonica is.
I like the Diatonic better. Less frills and more soul.

[steve]

Hi Liam. Just a quick note to say your album is so brilliant. Great vocals and harpin.

[julianAwarsing]

Very helpful, thanks! I just received my great grandfather's harmonica as a birthday gift and was admiring the sound it makes so much, I thought I would learn how to play. Its cool that you touched on the pulsing/beat (the tremelo), I felt that in my jaw when I was in the lower notes. That really caught my attention, and now I know why it happens.

[markfilippone]

Dear Brother, I thank you for the clarity, sincerity, and the straightforwardness of your presentation. ‘Much appreciated!

[yugao]

These clearly illustrated, lovely videos are very helpful!

[aishakatayysha]

Thanks kept wondering what two sets of rows were for...its tremolo...so nice of you to simplify things

[hynrtyh]

I’ve got a 16 hole tremelo and I would recommend it to everybody it’s so fun to. Sit down and just play some random songs on the harmonica

[reelreeler]

Tremolo harp player here (Hohner echo 56/96 was a very well presented video explaining the difference.

[KandiKlover]

I have a 2x20 tremolo which works out similar to a diatonic since each square group of 4 holes essentially counts as one which lets me use regular diatonic tab music to play on it.

[arthurwoodward]

Thanks for explaining tremelo v diatonic harmonica, very clear and concise.😊

[ronsbeerreviewstools]

Thank U for this informative video. My first harmonica I purchased when Iknew very little about harmonicas, was a 24 hole HOHNER INTERNATIONAL --WEEKENDER. After I learned more I purchased a 10 hole Diatonic, and put the 24 hole away. But ive taken it out of storage and will play it, now I know more about it/ Thank U. from Mass USA. Gouveia

[estebandiaz]

The first tremolo song was from Harpvard 💚

[JohnGottschalk]

For anyone picking up a Tremolo, here's a few lil tips:
1. The Tremolo is good for if you're playing long notes that make use of the tremolo to pierce out, consider playing the Reveille (the military bugle call), this song suits a tremolo as you hold those notes, the Tremolo actually helps you sound louder with less air, and keep the note going longer.
2. If you tilt the harmonica either up or down, you can play on just half of the notes to get a more typical diatonic sound. This might also lead you to bending a bit more as well, and you might be slightly out of tune, so keep that in mind.

[ydwong]

Very good and clear explanation. Thanks!

[revasgs]

Thank you for this perfect clarification between single hole and double hole harmonicas.

[welcometomrgseducation]

Informative as I have learnt that tremolo effect is achieved by the notes parallel to each other are set at slightly different pitches.

[geraldbeshears]

Very informative. I am trying to get a horn sound, saxophone, out of my diatonic. I'm in a band and one of the guitar players an I are trying to work up a back up horn section sound. I thought the tremolo harp might be helpful. Any suggestions?

[thomasinlondon]

Brilliantly presented video, thanks. I may sign up!