Harmonica Almanac – February 6
English man Sir Charles Wheatstone was born on this day in 1802. Wheatstone invented the concertina and there some English historians who credit him with inventing the harmonica in 1828.
U.S. President Ronald Reagan learned how to play the harmonica while recovering from the assassination attack in 1981. Reagan was born on this day in 1911.
Blues harmonica instructor David Barrett was born on this day in 1973. Barrett has written well over a dozen books and instructional programs for the harmonica as well as hosting an annual harmonica masterclass with many Blues harmonica greats.
Cajun fiddle, guitar and harmonica player Rodney Balfa was part of his family’s group, The Balfa Brothers Band along with his brother Dewey. Rodney Balfa died on this day in 1979.
That’s it for today. Have fun and practice!