Posted by Patrick J. McKenna on September 17, 2001 at 13:28:57:
In Reply to: Re: Easy way to find key of harmonica to certain songs posted by Susan on September 16, 2001 at 20:40:07:
: I think the easiest way to find the key of a song to play harmonica with, is to start with a C harp. Virtually all simple rock/folk/bues/pop songs are done with a key like C,G,A,D, E or F, and you can usually tell if it's in cross harp, or straight harp. If you're familiar with I IV V chord progressions, try to match the root note of the I chord with your C harp, take the harp that's in second position and try it. It's mostly trial and error until you find what fits. (Cross harp is a fourth up, so, if you're in the key of G, you use a C harp, etc.)
Hey Susan,
I have always used another instrument, such as a guitar or an electric bass to figure out the key of a song (off of a recording). Sometimes I use a keyboard and occasionally, a harmonica and some trial-and-error luck works.
You obviously play harmonica. I don't know how proficient you are, but from what I've read of your post, my conclusion is that you already have a pretty good command of the harmonica. If you don't play another instrument, find someone who does, and start playing with him or her. This could be the start of many fun-filled experiences with the harmonica.
Check out this site frequently. As I've said before, and I will say it again, harmonicalessons.com is a goldmine of information for all of us harmonica players.
Wishing you success in your endeavors,
Patrick