11 best band harmonicas

Band harmonicas, often referred to as harmonica bands or harmonica orchestras, are musical ensembles that primarily feature harmonicas as their main instruments.These ensembles can vary in size and instrumentation but typically include multiple players who perform on different types of harmonicas, creating harmonious arrangements and compositions. Here are some key points about band harmonicas:

  1. Instrumentation: Harmonicas come in various keys and types, including diatonic harmonicas, chromatic harmonicas, and tremolo harmonicas. In a harmonica band, players use different types and keys of harmonicas to achieve a broader range of musical possibilities.

  2. Repertoire: Band harmonicas can perform a wide variety of music genres, including folk, world music, classical, and popular songs. Their repertoire often includes both traditional and contemporary compositions.

  3. Arrangements: Creating arrangements for a harmonica band can be challenging due to the limited range and key options of individual harmonicas. Skilled arrangers work to ensure that each player's harmonica part complements the others to create a harmonious overall sound.

  4. Concerts and Performances: Harmonica bands perform in various settings, from local community events to larger concerts and festivals. They often showcase the versatility of the harmonica and its ability to produce beautiful melodies and harmonies.

  5. History: Harmonica bands have a long history, dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They were especially popular in the United States during the early 20th century, with some groups achieving significant fame.

  6. Notable Harmonica Bands: Some notable harmonica bands and ensembles include the Harmonicats, the Borrah Minevitch Harmonica Rascals, and the Tokyo Harmonica Orchestra.

  7. Training and Skill: Playing in a harmonica band requires skill and precision. Musicians must be proficient in playing their specific harmonicas and be able to read sheet music and follow the conductor's directions.

  8. Community Involvement: Harmonica bands often have strong community ties and can serve as a way for people of all ages to come together and enjoy making music.

In summary, band harmonicas are musical ensembles that showcase the versatility and beauty of harmonicas, featuring players who perform on various types and keys of harmonicas. They have a diverse repertoire and can perform a wide range of musical genres, making them an interesting and unique part of the world of wind and woodwind instruments.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best band harmonicas on the market
  

Hohner Accordions Marine Band Harmonica, Key Of C, 10

Hohner Accordions

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The one, The Only, The Original -- The harp that was there when harmonica blues was born. Made famous When played by every serious harmonica player from little Walter to John Lennon, Paul Butterfield to Bruce Springsteen, Neil young and many, many more. The result of over 100 years of tradition and German craftsmanship, It is still the number one choice of top professionals and the most recognizable model All over the world, known for its full tone and wood comb. Play the Marine Band and be a part of history. Available in 12 major keys, lower and higher octave and minor tunings. Reeds: 40 Reed plates: brass; 0. 9 mm comb: wood length in cm: Approx. 15. 9 this is the essence of the classic line -- traditional values and cutting edge technology. Extremely precise tools minimize air loss and ensure a quicker response and bigger volume. As always, each classic harmonica is exclusively handmade. Horner's diatonic harmonicas set the industry standard through their high quality construction, Excellent response and unsurpassed tone. Often called "blues Harps", they have been a fixture as melody and accompaniment instruments in blues, rock, country, and folk bands, as well as many Other styles of music and musical ensembles. Richter tuning and Undivided air channels allow for bending and overblowing The reeds, creating the signature Wailing sound typical of the harmonica.

From the Manufacturer

  • One of the world's most recognizable harmonicas, known for its full tone and wood comb
  • Tuned to key of C; also available in other major keys, lower and higher octave, and minor tunings
  • Made famous by players from Little Walter to John Lennon, Paul Butterfield to Bruce Springsteen, and more
  • 20 reeds with 0.9mm brass reedplates; pearwood comb
  • Includes distinctive protective case

User questions & answers

Question: Sorry everyone but what are the differences between the golden melody, the special 20 and the marine band
Answer: Thank you for your question. Yes, it is the Classic model. The specific model number is M189693. The back of the case says "Hand made in Germany."
Question: Why do the free month of online lessons use a harmonica tuned to A
Answer: They are made in Germany, I bought 4 a as gifts for my groomsmen and myself. Besides annoying the hell out of the entire wedding party, the harmonicas are of excellent German craftsmanship.
Question: Is this the "1896 Classic" model? If so, what model number is that? thank you
Answer: I have been using this harmonica for over a year, and it serves both as a beginners and professional item. I love it
Question: good morning, this harmonica is made in germany, united states or Chinese
Answer: I believe this was in the key of C, it is a very good beginner harmonica. I bought one myself.

Hohner Marine Band 1896 Classic Harmonica - Key of C Bundle with Carrying Case and Austin Bazaar Polishing Cloth

Based on 585 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Adding value to your purchase, Austin Bazaar bundles your instrument with necessary accessories. Everything you need to start playing immediately comes in one box. Save yourself the hassle and save some money while you're at it. An Austin Bazaar polishing cloth is included so you can keep your new instrument in mint condition.



The Marine Band is the original blues harmonica. Today it is still manufactured in much the same way as when it was first introduced in 1896. Its uniquely authentic sound has defined the role of the harmonica in the blues tradition and made it the benchmark by which all others are judged. The archetypal blues harmonica with the traditional Hohner tuning.



Features

  • Original cover design from 1896 ensures the classic blues sound
  • Greatly reduced swelling behavior through double-coated pear wood comb



    Specifications

    item name: Marine Band 1896 Classic

    type: diatonic

    tuning: Richter

    Number of holes: 10

    Reeds: 20 brass

    Cover surface: stainless steel

    Reed plates: 0.9 mm brass

    Reed plate surface: brass

    Mouthpiece surface: pearwood lacquered

    Comb: pearwood, brown

    Comb surface: clear lacquer

    Length: 10 cm

    • The original blues harmonica, still manufactured in much the same way as when it was first introduced in 1896
    • Its uniquely authentic sound has defined the role of the harmonica in the blues tradition
    • Original cover design from 1896 ensures the classic blues sound
    • Greatly reduced swelling behavior through double-coated pear wood comb
    • Made in Germany
  • User questions & answers

    Question: how long this harmonica last on the average
    Answer: To the best of my knowledge the blues harp reeds are thinner so allow for what they call bending of the notes.
    Question: what are the diffences between golden melody and marine band
    Answer: yes we do -hope this helps!
    Question: What is the difference between a marine band and a blues harp
    Answer: 4 inches end to end.
    Question: Do you post australia
    Answer: The harmonica is made for the blues and all of styles of music that grew out of it. So it “crosses over” to all of these other styles of music.

    First 50 Songs You Should Play on Harmonica

    Hal Leonard Publishing Corporation

    Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

    Product features

    First 50 Songs You Should Play on Harmonica

    If you're new to the harmonica, you are probably eager to learn some songs. This book provides easy-to-read harmonica tab, standard notation, basic lyrics and chord symbols for the most popular songs in a wide range of styles. Each song was carefully selected and arranged for the 10-hole C diatonic harmonica.

    Songs include: Ain't No Sunshine • Blowin' in the Wind • Edelweiss • Isn't She Lovely • Jambalaya (On the Bayou) • Kum Ba Yah • Let It Be • Michael Row the Boat Ashore • My Girl • Puff the Magic Dragon • Ring of Fire • The Sound of Silence • Sweet Caroline • What a Wonderful World • You Are My Sunshine • and more.

    Take a Closer Look!

    Get a sneak peek inside this beginner harmonica collection.

    Take a Closer Look!

    Get a sneak peek inside this beginner harmonica collection.

    Take a Closer Look!

    Get a sneak peek inside this beginner harmonica collection.

    Take a Closer Look!

    Get a sneak peek inside this beginner harmonica collection.

    Hohner Harmonica (3P1896BX)

    Hohner Accordions

    Based on 67 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    German quality and craftsmanship, Professional Level Instrument, Pear Wood Body, Stainless Steel Covers, Brass Reeds

    • 3 harmonicas in one package: Keys of G, A, & C
    • Single lacquered pear wood comb
    • Arched stainless steel covers with side vents, nailed
    • Available in all major keys plus special tunings
    • Handmade
    • Hand orientation: Right Handed

    User questions & answers

    Question: Are these harmonicas diatonic or chromatic
    Answer: This question is almost impossible to answer. When one plays with other musicians, one never knows what key will come up next. The really good players can also play in different keys on the same harmonica using bending techniques, and I imagine most pros have a collection of harps in different keys (there are 12 possible). But based on the number of harmonicas sold, the most common, by far, is the key of C. That is no doubt influenced by vast numbers of beginners who buy a harp and discard it after 3 weeks.
    Question: do these harmonicas come with cases
    Answer: Great harmonica. Nothing sounds like it. They are manufactured where they began. Germany.
    Question: which key of harmonica is mostly used by the pro blues players
    Answer: I have several and all of them were made in Germany.
    Question: where they made.thanks
    Answer: Yes it is. Sometimes, I tune my guitar down 1/2 step, and with the F#, you can still play in G. The harmonica is not a Low F# if that is what you meant, but standard, 1/2 step lower than G.

    Hohner Harmonica (1896BX-D)

    Hohner Accordions

    Based on 57 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    The one, The Only, The Original. From the birth of the blues, the Marine Band 1896 has been a constant musical fixture. Played by iconic figures such as Little Walter, Paul Butterfield, and Bob Dylan, it remains the top choice for the top professional, as well as aspiring musicians around the globe. Relying upon over a century of German craftsmanship and tradition, this harmonica has been universally recognized for its full tone, musical range, and distinctive wood comb. Let your musical expression be a part of the continuing Marine Band legacy.

    • One of the world's most recognizable harmonicas, known for its full tone and wood comb
    • Tuned to key of D; also available in other major keys, lower and higher octave, and minor tunings
    • Made famous by players from Little Walter to John Lennon, Paul Butterfield to Bruce Springsteen, and more
    • 20 reeds with 0.9mm brass reedplates; pearwood comb
    • Includes distinctive protective case

    User questions & answers

    Question: The image shows the product in Key of C. I would like to be assured that I am purchasing it in the Key of D
    Answer: I'm not sure why this description says "Hohner Accordions" that and "Hohner" by itself refer to the same company and the same source of the instruments.
    Question: is key of d okay for a first harp? Also, is there a major difference between marine band compared to the cheaper harmonicas
    Answer: It's marked D, so, naturally it's the key of D.
    Question: how does horner accordian brand compare to the classic brand
    Answer: Yes
    Question: Is Key of D
    Answer: It appears that this was an Amazon fulfillment error. The listing for the White Dragon is correct and that is the product that should have been shipped. It appears that the fulfillment label was applied to the wrong box. Please contact Amazon direct.

    Johnny Puleo and His Harmonica Gang

    AUDIO FIDELITY

    Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

    Ultimate Beginner Blues Harmonica Basics, Vol 1 & 2 (DVD)

    Alfred

    Based on 15 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    Covers how to get started (choosing a harmonica, blowing and drawing), positions (first position and cross harp), playing individual notes, bending, and learning blues phrasing. Also teaches developing vibrato and trills, playing octaves and chords, mastering phrases in the style of blues harp legends Little Walter and Sonny Boy Williamson, and a bonus lesson on ""The Major Scale.

    Hohner Marine Band Special 20 5-Piece Pro Pack - Keys of G, A, C, D, & E

    Based on 39 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    Hohner Marine Band Special 20 Harmonica 5-Piece Pro Pack with Case - Keys of G, A, C, D, & EThe one, the only, the original -- the harp that was there when harmonica blues was born.  Made famous when played by every serious harmonica player from Little Walter to John Lennon, Paul Butterfield to Bruce Springsteen,  Neil Young and many, many more. The result of over 100 years of tradition and German craftsmanship, it is still the number one choice of top professionals and the most recognizable model all over the world, known for its full tone and wood comb.  Play the Marine Band and be a part of history.

    • 10-hole diatonic
    • Professional quality
    • Hohner harmonicas feature:
    • Improved reed profiles to increase reed life by over 200%
    • Precision die punches to ensure reed plates with unparalleled air tightness

    User questions & answers

    Question: are they original hohner
    Answer: Our price is 5.73. I am not sure if that is the answer you want or not. This includes shipping. Thanks
    Question: Are these regular Horner special 20 harmonicas
    Answer: I think it depends on the toddler. With supervision.
    Question: Is these the same as the country tuned harmonica
    Answer: The sound is great and Chicago Blues are used by professional players as well as hobbyist. A professional harmonica player playing the clubs in San Francisco, he is strong player that uses mostly Hohner's. He blows out the reeds very quickly and it was very costly. He buys Kay Chicago Blues , He still blows out the reeds, but instead paying $40 per harmonica he pays less than $10. Many pro and experience players will say Chicago Blues are very well made, good quality harmonica and is priced at half of comparable quality name brands. In the 80's the Chicago Blues Harmonica was the #2 selling harmonica in the USA. No, due to the price there is no case for the single harmonicas, However the KHCB7A is a gift set of 7 harmonicas in a wooden case, priced for about the same as one of other more expensive brands. Hope this helps, as we are very proud of our Chicago Blues harmonica.
    Question: if you buy an ultra sonic cleaner they will last much longer. " I just tap them after playing. Is it better to use a cleaner
    Answer: I think most people start with a C harmonica. If your question is whether or not to buy other keys then my answer is yes. You should have one in every key. A,B,C,D,E,F and G . You won't regret it. Really. It gives you so much more to wrap your head around when you have more variety

    Rock n' Blues Harmonica: A World of Harp Knowledge, Songs, Stories, Lessons, Riffs, Techniques and Audio Index for a New Generation of Harp Players

    Brand: Music Sales America

    Based on 280 reviews Check latest price

    Hohner Harmonica (MBC)

    Hohner Accordions

    Based on 190 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    5 Marine Band Harmonicas in a Sturdy Neoprene Carrying Case that can hold up to 7 standard sized, 10-hole harmonicas. About the Marine Band Harmonica: The One, The Only, The Original. From the birth of the blues, the Marine Band 1896 has been a constant musical fixture. Played by iconic figures such as Little Walter, Paul Butterfield, and Bob Dylan, it remains the top choice for the top professional, as well as aspiring musicians around the globe. Relying upon over a century of German craftsmanship and tradition, this harmonica has been universally recognized for its full tone, musical range, and distinctive wood comb. Let your musical expression be a part of the continuing Marine Band legacy.

    • 5 Marine Band Harmonicas in a Zippered Neoprene Carrying Case that can hold up to 7 standard sized 10-hole harmonicas).
    • Single lacquered pear wood comb
    • Arched stainless steel covers with side vents, nailed
    • Available in all major keys plus special tunings
    • Handmade

    User questions & answers

    Question: does crossover come in a set of 5 harmonicas
    Answer: Germany for the harmonics and China for the case.
    Question: are these crossovers
    Answer: Yeah I know what you're talking about. Just over 40 years ago when I started playing harp the MB Hohner and Blues harp were the go to harps of the day without much else to compare to. Since that time for the past 25 years or so I found that the special 20 to be my go to harp for most of my playing . Lee Oscar is also solid but I find them better for single note draws and blowing. I'm not a techy over analytical harp player but I know what I hear and feel and I would have to agree with your air leak analogy compared to the other harps I mentioned. This is not to say the MB is a crappy harp. It requires a different approach and effort to coax the right sound out of them. I enjoy playing MB accoustically better than mic. If you want to start a long winded highly debatable thread then you should go to the web site Modern Harmonica. These dudes will hash this out for weeks. Hope this opinion helps you.Rippin Ronny
    Question: where does it made in
    Answer: Diatonic Harmonicas.
    Question: Okay, what is with the tough draw on the 2 hole? Also, sounds like air leaking. Common to all 5 harps in this set, and my original C
    Answer: Yes they come with hard plastic cases.

    Product features

    Hohner MBC Marine Band 5-Piece Harmonica Set G, A, C, D & E

    This Hohner Marine Band Set comes with 5 Marine Band Harmonicas in a convenient zippered neoprene case. Each harmonica has a single lacquered pear wood comb and arched stainless steel covers with side vents. It is available in all major keys plus special tunings. All of the harmonicas are hand made.

    Hohner Marine Band Deluxe Harmonica M200503 x D

    Based on 21 reviews Check latest price

    Product description

    Hohner Marine Band Deluxe 2005/20 (D) is a diatonic harmonica in the key of D. The Deluxe series offers various improvements on the classic Marine Band series: an optimised cover design, a closed comb and rounded openings to provide a better overall sound. A professional level harmonica. Key features of the Hohner Marine Band Deluxe 2005/20 (D).

    • Type: Diatonic Harmonica.
    • Key: D.
    • Pearwood comb with triple lacquering.
    • 20 
    • classic flat brass reeds.;-

    Latest Reviews

    View all