Bending Notes
One of the most exciting sounds in harmonica playing is the use of note bending. This technique can be difficult at first and may take several months to gain control of, but is essential for Blues playing, so it is definitely worth developing.
The most common bends are the inhale notes on the low end of the harmonica, from 1 to 6. It is also possible to bend exhaled notes on the high end of the harmonica. However, this is a more advanced technique and is not dealt with here.
To bend a note, the back of your tongue (not the tip) needs to move up and back to the back of your mouth. This changes the flow of air, resulting in the note "bending" downwards to a lower pitch. A good way to get the right feel for the movement required for bending notes is to say the word Yo, or Yaw.
Another useful exercise to prepare you for bending is to whistle a descending major scale. As you do this, notice how the back of your tongue moves back towards your throat as the pitch gets lower.
This example demonstrates a half step bend on the inhale note of hole 4, as indicated by the letter b above the note. Everyone has trouble with bending at first and many people can’t do it at all when they begin, so be patient and keep at it. In time, your perseverance will definitely pay off.
Here is an exercise to help you gain control of note bending. Listen carefully as you play and keep the notes even.
Now try these Blues licks which make use of the note bend you have just learned. A lick is a short musical phrase which can be used as a basis for improvisation or joined with other licks to form a solo.
