French Jeusit missionary Pere Jean Joseph Marie Amiot died on this day in 1793. Amiot sent several Shengs back to Europe from China, which set off an era of experimentation in free-reeded instruments which ultimately led to the invention of the harmonica.
Beatles co-founder John Lennon played several instruments and you can hear him playing the harmonica on many of the groups early hits. As the Beatles songs grew more complicated, Lennon ultimately ceased to feature the harmonica on their records. Lennon was born on this day in 1940.
Bluegrass harmonica player Mike Stevens was born on this day in 1957. He has been playing since he was 15 and has played with many of the top names in Country music as well as performing at the Grand Old Opry on numerous occasions.
That’s it for today. Have fun and practice!
Pete Krampert
I am the author of "The Encyclopedia of the Harmonica", which is still available on the internet in limited edition.
We will be happy to hear your thoughts