Blues Harmonica Improvisation Lesson 2 - Textures | Beginner Harmonica Lesson & Tabs

Liam Ward
Mar 15, 2022
2 min read

Updated: May 28

Hello! This is lesson 2 in a series on blues harmonica improvisation. In today's lesson we'll continue our study of blues improvisation by looking at adding textures to blues solos. (If you missed last week's lesson, you can check it out here.)

One of the great things about the harmonica is its range of textures. In this lesson we'll look at some of those textures, specifically double stops, warbles/trills and octave splits.

Easy Beginner Textures for Harmonica

🎶 1. Double Stops

What is it? A double stop is simply playing two notes at once. It creates a fuller and richer (but also 'dirtier') sound than a single note.

Why use it? Double stops are great for adding depth to melodies and making your harmonica sound more interesting and bluesy.

How to do it:

Instead of isolating one hole, cover two (e.g. holes 4 and 5 draw).
Breathe through both holes at once.
Keep your mouth relaxed, and aim to keep both notes clear.

Tip: Double stops use two holes side-by-side. See octave splits below for playing non-adjacent notes simultaneously.

🎵 2. Warbles / Trills

What is it? A warble (also known as a trill) is the rapid switching between two adjacent holes - often holes 4 and 5 draw. It adds movement and excitement to your playing.

Why use it? It’s one of the easiest and most dramatic ways to add intensity or flair to a riff or solo.

How to do it:

Start by playing 4 draw.
Quickly shift your mouth side to side between holes 4 and 5.
Keep the movement small and relaxed. Speed will come with practice.

Tip: You can either move your head or the harmonica. Do whichever feels best for you!

🎵 3. Octave Splits

What is it? An octave split involves playing two notes that are an octave apart (like holes 1 and 4 blow) while blocking the middle holes with your tongue.

Why use it? This creates a powerful, punchy sound that’s used in loads of styles of music. It’s also a great introduction to tongue-blocking techniques.

How to do it:

Widen your mouth to cover four holes. Then block the middle holes with your tongue while letting air through the two outside holes.
For example, to play holes 1 and 4, block holes 2 and 3 with your tongue.
Start with blow notes first (1 and 4 blow), then try 1 and 4 draw.

Tip: It takes a bit of practice to control your tongue position, but once it clicks, octave splits become a signature sound.

I hope you've enjoyed this lesson. There are loads of great approaches to improvising. If you'd like to learn more, why not take my premium course Blues Harmonica Improvisation?