Chromatic Transcriptions

Chromatic harmonica transcription files:

Basic instructions

• Note You need to download the Transcribe! software before you can use the download files (see 'Basic instructions' below). You can use the YouTube videos instead (where available), which offers some looping and slow down options, but not as good as Transcribe!

• 1. Download the Transcribe! software (Note: there is a 30 day free trial, then you have to purchase, current cost $39)
• 2. Download the song you want to learn from the left
• 3. Open the Transcribe! file (.xsc) in the Transcribe! software
• 4. Import the song downloaded (.mp3) into the Transcribe! software
• Full instructions are provided here
• Alternatively, you can use the YouTube videos, but they don't allow you to loop or slow down the songs

The Transcriptions

Blues Chromatic

Tablature

Number, e.g. 6 = hole to be played

b = blow

d = draw

1 following number + b/d, e.g. 3d1 = 3 draw, slide in

Numbers grouped together >9, e.g. 10, 11, 12 = those holes on 12 hole chromatic

Numbers grouped together in brackets, e.g. (2d,3d), (5b,6b,7b) = chord, play notes shown together

Numbers grouped together without a space following comma, e.g. 3d,3d1 = notes played in quick succession (often first note is grace note)

x3 or x4, etc. = play 3 or 4 times. You get the idea

trill = rapidly playing between the two holes shown, e.g. "4d~5d trill"

octave, e.g. 3-7b = play 3b and 7b with tongue blocking 4b,5b,6b

gliss = glissando: quickly slide up or down harmonica, as shown

vib = vibrato (there's various types, just play what you hear)

Note With chromatic harmonica there is a choice between the repeat notes, e.g. 4d1, 4b, 5b: my preference is shown but feel free to use your own preference

Check the 'Tablature' page for more detail of the tab used

Just play along with the transcription files: you'll soon get the hang of them!

Song types

intro = the harmonica intro on the song

solo = the harmonica solo from the song

instr = a full or part harmonica instrumental song

full = full song