Melodicas

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Hohner is the king of the harmonica, so it's no surprise that they're behind an instrument as similar as the melodica. Essentially, the melodica is a cross between a harmonica and a keyboard. The piano-style keys open airways to allow the airflow to reach the reeds, an arrangement that not only makes the melodica easy to play, it also allows it to play chords, making it a polyphonic instrument. This sets the melodica apart from other woodwinds, which are usually monophonic and play just one note at a time. These distinguishing characteristics make the melodica a particularly popular learning instrument. It's fairly compact and can be taken anywhere, which makes packing up for practices a breeze—especially since each model comes with a case. They also each include an extension hose, allowing you the option of playing it vertically with just the mouthpiece attached or horizontally, using the hose to carry your breath so you can position the melodica wherever you like.

With the rhythm and dynamics controlled directly by your breath, the melodica is an expressive instrument, producing harmonica-like sounds on single notes and accordion effects on chords. Hohner produces a few different styles of melodica, the simplest of which is the 32-key version. This is a perfect student instrument, and comes in "fire" red and "ocean" blue colors for a bit of personalization. There is also a more classic black-and-white instructor model. For bringing the melodica out of the classroom and onto the stage, you might consider the S37 'Performer' model. This 37-key melodica is easy to transition to after learning on the smaller versions, and has a three-octave range extending from F below middle C through F. You can get a lot out of the melodica as a student or as an experienced musician planning to use it to add a bit of unique character to your performances. With incredible character and style, the melodica is a great instrument for you.