Is the harmonica Irish?

While not widely used in Irish sessions, the harmonica is recognized as a traditional instrument in Ireland and has its own category in the competitions. often referred to as “harmonicas”.

What is a slide diatonic harmonica?

The Slide Diatonic comes in the two main keys for Irish music, D and G, as well as C. That’s because all the slider notes have been tuned to the home key of the harmonica – hence the name Slide Diatonic. You can see the slider note is invariably the next note of the home scale.

Can you play Irish tunes with a harmonica?

Irish Tunes on the Diatonic Harmonica For a number of years now I’ve been taking my harmonicas along to various traditional music sessions in Cornwall, which is where I live, and playing the traditional tunes of Ireland, Scotland and Northumberland.

What instruments are used in Irish music?

Listen especially to music on the uilleann pipes, fiddle and flute, the most important vehicles for Irish traditional music for centuries and the instruments on which the foundations of traditional style were built. If you can hum, lilt or whistle an Irish tune, you can learn to play it on the harmonica.

What’s the best harp for Irish music?

The vast majority of Irish tunes are in D, G or modes based around D and G. A sizeable minority are in A major or A Mixolydian mode. If you have harps in D, G and A you’ll be able to join in with 95\% of what’s going on.

What should I listen to when I play Irish music?

If you want to play Irish music, you should listen to as much of it as possible. Listen especially to music on the uilleann pipes, fiddle and flute, the most important vehicles for Irish traditional music for centuries and the instruments on which the foundations of traditional style were built.