Playing the harmonica is a fun and entertaining hobby, especially for those who are fond of music. One of the most popular tunes to play on the harmonica is “Mary Had a Little Lamb”. This simple and catchy tune has been played on the harmonica by countless musicians, both amateur and professional, over the years. In this article, we will discuss the history of “Mary Had a Little Lamb” and how to play it on the harmonica.
The History of “Mary Had a Little Lamb”
“Mary Had a Little Lamb” is a nursery rhyme that was first published in 1830. The song tells the story of Mary and her pet lamb and is often used to teach young children about the importance of kindness and caring for animals. Over the years, the song has been adapted into various musical styles, including blues, jazz, and rock and roll.
Playing “Mary Had a Little Lamb” on the Harmonica
Playing “Mary Had a Little Lamb” on the harmonica is relatively easy, making it a great tune for beginners to learn. To play the song, you will need a diatonic harmonica in the key of C. The song is played in the second position, which means that you will be playing in the key of G. Here are the notes you will need to play:
Blow 4, draw 4, blow 5, blow 4, draw 4, draw 4, blow 4, blow 4, blow 4, draw 4, draw 4, blow 5, blow 5, blow 4, draw 4, blow 5, blow 4, draw 4, draw 4.
Practice playing the song slowly at first, focusing on hitting each note cleanly and accurately. As you get more comfortable with the tune, you can start to play it faster and with more expression.
Tips for Playing the Harmonica
If you’re new to playing the harmonica, here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Start with a good quality harmonica. A well-made harmonica will produce a better sound and be easier to play than a cheap one.
- Hold the harmonica correctly. Place the harmonica between your lips and tilt it slightly downwards, so that the holes are facing up.
- Breathe from your diaphragm. To produce a clear and strong sound on the harmonica, you need to breathe from your diaphragm, not your chest.
- Practice regularly. Like any musical instrument, the more you practice, the better you will become. Make time to practice every day, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
Conclusion
Playing “Mary Had a Little Lamb” on the harmonica is a fun and rewarding experience, especially for beginners. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can learn to play the tune with confidence and skill. So grab your harmonica and start practicing – you’ll be playing like a pro in no time!