Nothin' But the Blues for Harmonica

Master harmonica player and teacher Bobby Joe Holman introduces budding harp players to the "sound path to your rig": that is, how to hold and play a harmonica through different microphones, together with a description of equipment options and settings. He then focuses on technique: ways to play a single note, playing octaves, producing vibrato, bending the notes, and playing in 2nd and 3rd positions. Instructional segments are separated by performance sequences which allow the viewer to play along. This is a smartly produced, tightly organized and enjoyable program. Bobby Joe Holman is an accomplished performer with a solid grounding in theory and he conveys a real understanding of the problems musicians face in mastering their instrument. Close up photography provides an excellent view of hand positions and equipment and John Marks and his Blues Patrol supply wonderful back-up in the entertaining performance segments. Highly recommended. Also available is Holman's earlier tape Play Harmonica in One Hour ($19.95). Aud: P. (J. Reed)