The Trill
Another exciting sound often played on the harmonica is the trill. A trill is a rapid alternation between two inhaled notes or two exhaled notes. This can be achieved either by rapidly moving the harmonica from side to side while maintaining a steady breath, or by rolling the head from side to side while holding the harmonica steady. Both these methods are common in harmonica playing.
Trills
A trill is indicated by two holes (e.g., I) with the symbol Y written above them.
Here is a typical Blues lick using the trill on holes 4 and 5.
There is always more than one way to play something. This example contains exactly the same notes as the previous example except that the rhythm has been changed. Experiment with different rhythms for other licks you have learned.
Here is another variation. This time the rhythm is exactly the same as example 88 but the notes have been changed. The trill here is between holes 3 and 4.
Here is one more lick featuring the trill. Try making up some of your own licks and adding trills to them.
