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I consider the “Coughing Technique” one of the most important basic harmonica techniques for all styles of music. It's what enables me to play the same note two or more times in a row with a smooth yet distinctly accurate tone.

Technically, this effect is caused by the opening and closing of the vocal chords. When the vocal chords are close they completely block the airflow.

See if you can completely block the flow of air from your lungs with your vocal chords. Open your mouth, take a deep breath in, and imagine that you were about to cough but don't actually cough. When you do this are you able to prevent the air from moving through your throat? If so you are successfully using your vocal chords to completely block the air passage through your throat. Great!!!! Your on your way to learning the Coughing Technique.

For an in depth explanation of the coughing technique as well as an opportunity to use it in a musical situation please listen to this clip from my Audio CD:

Teaching Yourself to Jam with other Musicians: Getting Campfire Ready Vol. 2"
-Level 3 and 4 of the JP Allen Instructional Series

Try my Set of 2 Audio cd's and 5 dvd's Today!

3 Demo Tracks from this lesson:

(*Audio quality has been reduced to allow for faster streaming)

 

Jingle Bells

Try using the coughing technique to play the same 5 several times at the beginning of “Jingle Bells”. I have indicated in RED the notes I recommend you use the Coughing Technique.

If you want an opportunity to practice the coughing technique in musical playing situations I highly recommend you check out:

Teaching Yourself to Jam with other Musicians: Getting Campfire Ready Vol. 2"
-Level 3 and 4 of the JP Allen Instructional Series

Try my Set of 2 Audio cd's and 5 dvd's Today!



THE NEXT LESSON: Introduces using single notes and The Coughing Technique on the song, “Ode To Joy”.
 


OVERSTOCK DISCOUNT BUNDLE!!!

Just for checking out my discounted DVD's you will receive a
FREE DVD and a FREE HARMONICA

("Harmonica Core Essentials: Creating Good Habits")

My DVD lessons will:

Show you the tricks to playing single notes with a sweet soulful tone.

Help you to learn songs faster.

Teach you the secrets to bending, jamming at high speeds, and all the essential techniques necessary for you to enjoy the harmonica for life.

ACCELERATE your progress. Many students tell me that the DVD's are a lot more fun and easy than working off this website. The DVD's will show you over 50 simple ways to play the harmonica musically and sound great.
 

If you have any concerns or need additional clarity feel free to
Contact JP at (808) 639-1086
or
jp@jpallen.com

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