Instant Harmonica - play The Kesh (part 2) - easy and fun!

This lecture explains that this is part 2 of the Kesh and I recommend you take part 1 first.

Now we start to fill in the missing notes.

This time signature (6/8) means there are 6 beats in the bar but it feels like two groups of 3

So you can count it 123 456 with a strong pulse on 1 and 4

You could also count it 123 123 like a waltz

Or even 1 and a, 4 and a.

Hence the phrase 'diddly diddley' which I've heard describing (not very kindly) this type of music.

So learn the first few bars with me now.

I've added an audio file of me playing the tune three times with a backing track. It's quite slow but may not seem like it when you first hear it! You can use it as you get used to playing the notes I show you.

If you would like a slower version message me and I'll make one.

Now we will finish the top line off.

Notice the repetition means we've also just played the majority of the second line.

So take your time on this and repeat it over and over.

Have a look at what I've added to the board and you will see how repetitive the tune is.

Play it from the top please with repeats.

Notice when you repeat the A section add the 3 blow but when you head to the B section the pickup note is 4 draw.

Here comes the B part now.

The filling in notes could be thought of as decoration as they simply drop down a hole and then back without changing breath direction.

It's the same idea in the second bar of the B section but not so practical for harmonica players - you need to play 6 draw, 7 blow, 6 draw so practice it well.

If you find it too fast play it more slowly!

Starting at bar 11.

Note the repetition that keep occurring.

Let's play from the very top of the piece but without repeats.

Play it over and over.

Well done - you are 75% through the tune! Keep going.

Let's add the first part of the last line - guess what, it's the same as above in bar - until the last note anyway.

Play it from the top now please.

And again.

Let's finish it off.

Play the last line slowly with me now.

Now play the B section over and over.

At the end of the section use the 4 draw when you go back to the B section again.

At the end of the piece when you want to stop it head for the 10 blow or the 4 blow by sliding there still breathing out.

How can we extend this tune?

Play it tongueblocked

Use the rhythm with chords

Use tricks that the fiddle and whistle players use - the scotch snap, the cut, the roll - the 'doodle' or 'duddla' sound.

Or even 'diddle-a da'

Or 'drrrrr' like rolling your Rs

Or the 'mandolin' vibrato

Or the flick - go up one hole and back.

Or an octave lower/higher

All these are taught in my 'Learn Harmonica' course if you want to follow this up.

There's more, but right now......go to a session!