FAQ

S--PLAYING POSITIONS

Q. What are the FIRST and SECOND playing positions?

A. If you want to play the tune or melody of a song, you are probably playing in the FIRST position. i.e. if the tune or song is in the key of C, you would need a harp in the key of C. If you are playing a blues tune or riff, you are probably playing in the SECOND position, which would be G, played on a C harp.  This is attained by playing the G scale found within the notes of a C harp.

It is possible to play six positions on a ten hole diatonic harp, however, most players won't go beyond three.

The Natural Minor and Melody Maker harps in the Lee Oskar range are labelled in the SECOND (recommended) playing position. So if you buy a C labelled Melody Maker, the actual harp is a D minor, to be played in C (second position).
David Barrett has books for 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions if you would like to explore this further.

S--HARMONICA VALUES

Q. I have found an old harmonica that my Grandad used to play. How much is it worth?

A. Harmonicas have been produced by the million for more than a century, and some models have hardly changed in design. Therefore, it is unlikely that your harmonica would  have a great value beyond the sentimental.   However, there are exceptions to this, it could have been previously owned by someone famous or notorious (with provenance).  Also, there have been special editions or unique designs manufactured over the years, and these could be of value to a collector.