The Weiser Harmonica Collective

First of all: We are place for you to learn to play harmonica

In addition: you can  share your skills with others

And finally: We are all here to HAVE FUN!

Established in 2018 by nationally recognized harmonica entertainer and composer Dennis M. Cooper, this group is all about learning and fun!

We are open to all- ages 7 and above and the only requirement to get started is a 10-hole diatonic harmonica in the key of C.

Benefits of playing the harmonica

  • A very affordable instrument
    Where else can you buy an entry-level instrument for less than $10, an intermediate level for $50, and at top-rated professional instrument for around $100?
  • It is easy to learn for beginners with no prior musical training
  • It provides great exercise for your respiratory system
    Now used nation-wide in respiratory therapy practices and at asthma camps, people with breathing problems are benefiting from playing this humble instrument on a regular basis.

Visit out our Facebook events page for dates and times of our fun filled get sessions at: https://www.facebook.com/pg/Beetreefolk/events/.

About The Instrument:

Comb

The comb is the main body of the instrument, which, when assembled with the reed plates, forms air chambers for the reeds. The term comb may originate from the similarity between this part of a harmonica and a hair comb. Harmonica combs are traditionally made from wood. Combs are also made from plastic or metal.

The main advantage of a particular comb material over another one is its durability. In particular, a wooden comb can absorb moisture from the player’s breath and contact with the tongue. This can cause the comb to expand slightly, making the instrument uncomfortable to play, and to then contract, potentially compromising air tightness.

Reed plate

The reed plate is a grouping of several reeds in a single housing. Reeds are usually made of brass. Steel, aluminium and plastic also used. Individual reeds are riveted to the reed plate. They may also be welded or screwed in place. Reeds fixed on the inner side of the reed plate (within the comb’s air chamber) respond to blowing, and those fixed on the outer side respond to suction.

Most harmonicas are constructed with the reed plates screwed or bolted to the comb or each other. If the plates are bolted to the comb, the reed plates can be replaced individually. This is useful because the reeds eventually go out of tune through normal use, and certain notes of the scale can fail more quickly than others.

Cover plates

Cover plates cover the reed plates and are usually made from metal. Wood and plastic have also been used. The choice of these is personal; because they project sound, they determine the tonal quality of the harmonica. There are two types of cover plates: traditional open designs of stamped metal or plastic, which are simply there to be held; and enclosed designs which offer a louder tonal quality.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries many harmonicas had special features on the covers, such as bells, which could be rung by pushing a button.