BASS HARMONICA INSTRUCTION MANUALS by Robert Berthiaume 12-14-17 - 9-14-09

We are proud to offer the unique and highly acclaimed Bass Harmonica Instruction Manuals by leading author Robert Berthiaume. It is Bob's wish to make them available to all through his website, as he has witnessed a new resurgence in interest in the orchestral harmonicas, especially the bass model. He is anxious to share his expertise, and deems it a labor of love for all those who are hungry for the knowledge of his favored instrument. Both books have accompanying CDs that are an important instructional tool, to be used in conjunction with the books, and are highly recommended.

Book One This book starts with a brief description of the bass harmonica: how to hold it; producing single tones; player performance; blowing techinques and phrasing. Then Bob begins the instruction with the basics of music theory, and explaining how it relates to the bass harmonica. From there he takes the student through a series of scales, exercises, and familiar songs, finishing with a tutorial on care and repair, and a trouble-shooting page. It is a well-written book that will be easily understood, giving the student more than just a basic start in preparation for ensemble playing.

Book Two Described as an Intermediate to Advanced Instructional Book for the serious bass harmonica player, it places heavy emphasis on arpeggios, and a further exploration of all keys in the major and minor modes. After a brief personal biography, Bob gets down to business with a series of sequencing/scale patterns, chromatic scale exercises, counting patterns, interval exercises (skips), basic rhythm patterns, and Latin rhythms. He even includes several duets for two bass harmonicas. The final musical challenge is a four-page Christmas medley, titled "Christmas Potpourri" arranged for chromatic, chord and bass harmonicas.

Ordering Information Book One - $14.00 (Item #BB-1) CD One - $12.00 (Item #BB-1a) Book Two - $16.00 (Item #BB-2) CD Two - $12.00 (Item #BB-2a) Shipping and Handling (USA) - $6.00 Via Domestic Priority Mail Shipping and Handling (International) - $14.00 Via International Priority Mail Send your order to: Ace of Harps PO Box 5061 Hudson, FL 34674-5061             Or use the convenient & safe PayPal option below for faster service.

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Updated: September 24, 2011
Posted: November 28, 1998
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