SAMSTAG

10:00–11:30

Jouko Kyhälä – Finnish traditional music on harmonicas
Tickets

In this workshop Jouko Kyhälä of Sväng shows and explains traditional styles of playing harmonica in Finnish folk music, but also presents his innovations in how to play complex fiddle tunes with ornaments and archaic jouhikko-music on harmonica. He can also explain his way of playing the Harmonetta if the time allows.

Jouko Kyhälä plays the is the Harmonetta player of Sväng, and holds an artistic doctoral degree with the harmonica. He is lecturer in Sibelius-Academy Folk Music department teaching traditional music, improvisation and expression.

11:45–13:15

Hermine Deurloo – Improvisation on the chromatic harmonica: Practical guidance and Q&A
Tickets

Together with guitarist Anton Goudsmit, Hermine will play several simple tunes for instant improvisation. You can benefit from Hermine’s long experience as one of the first female Jazz harmonica players She will be happy to to answer all your questions about the chromatic harmonica and improvisation. If you want: Bring your instrument and Hermine will guide you!

14:00–15:30

Mikael Bäckmann – Country harmonica Bäckman style
Tickets

I will demonstrate my style of playing country harmonica by breaking it down into five essential parts: (1) Accompaniment. 2 Country-tuned harmonicas. (3) Imitating vocal yodels. (4) Imitating the Pedal Steel Guitar. (5) Western Swing-tuned harmonicas.

16:00–17:30

Yotam Ben-Or – Rhythmic and harmonic understanding for harmonica players
Tickets

We’ll talk about the importance of learning basic piano, drumming, and singing in order to understand and hear rhythm and harmony and how to translate it onto the harmonica. We’ll dive deeper into the world of African-American rhythms and how to develop groove and time feel. Demonstrate creative ways to practice those concepts and how to incorporate them into improvisation and composition.

SONNTAG

10:00–11:30

Seth Shumate –Pre-war harmonica history, styles and techniques
Tickets

This inspirational class, complete with audio examples, will be an introduction to the various harmonica masters‘ styles recorded before the 1940s. These range from string band straight harp styles to cross harp fox chase and train songs, and include the pinnacle of excellence in both tongue blocking and lip-pursing harmonica styles. Technique and biographical information will accompany this informational session. Techniques may be discussed and workshopped, so G, A, Bf, C, and D harps welcome.

11:45–13:15

Steven De bruyn – The fun of live-looping
Tickets

A looper pedal can be great fun, but it can also give you a headache. However, it undoubtedly helps you to become a better player. In this workshop, Steven De bruyn will provide insights into the different types of looper available and how to avoid problems. You will take a close look at the possibilities of playing music with a looper pedal. For example you will learn how to use a looper as an extension of your instrument, or even as an instrument in itself. Together you will explore different techniques for integrating a looper pedal into your playing or performance. Please bring your own instrument (and, if possible, a microphone).