How to Play Triplets - Free Blues Harmonica Lesson

Liam Ward
Nov 23, 2021
2 min read

Updated: Jun 24

Hello! In today's free harmonica lesson, I'll teach you how to play triplets on the harmonica.

If you want to add energy and swing to your harmonica playing, triplets are one of the easiest and most effective ways to do it. In blues, folk, rock and many more styles, triplets can transform a plain phrase into something that really moves.

In this harmonica lesson, we’ll break down what triplets are and how to play them on harmonica. We'll also include some simple ways to practice and use them in your solos.

What Is a Triplet?

In musical terms, a triplet is a group of three evenly spaced notes played in the time normally taken by one beat.

So instead of counting quarter notes:

1 2 3 4

or eighth notes:

1 — and — 2 — and — 3 — and — 4 — and

You’d count triplets like this:

1 — and — a — 2 — and — a — 3 — and — a — 4 — and — a

They’re common in blues and swing, but they show up in all styles.

How to Practise Triplets

🔹 Step 1: Clap or Say the Rhythm First

Start by saying:"Ta-ta-ta" or "Trip-a-let, trip-a-let"

Clap along to a slow metronome (e.g. 60 bpm). This helps internalise the rhythm.

🔹 Step 2: Apply to a Single Note

Try saying “tuh-tuh-tuh” or “duh-duh-duh” with your tongue while blowing or drawing. This makes the rhythm more punchy, especially for faster triplets.