Monster Triplets — Part 1

What can you do with just six notes? Quite a lot! Monster Triplets — Part 1 gives you 20 triplet patterns and licks that twist, turn, and travel across the harmonica, creating exciting runs that can really grab a listener’s attention.

Part of my “Not for the Faint of Harp” series, this course offers a fun challenge for experienced players. The patterns go with the grain of the harmonica, incorporating bends into shapes that feel surprisingly natural once you get them flowing. As you build speed, they can sound increasingly explosive—but it all starts with smooth, relaxed playing at slower tempos.

We’ll play in second position on a C diatonic harmonica, in the key of G. Most of the material uses just six notes—G, A, B, C, D, and F—with a few chromatic notes adding extra color along the way. No overblows or overdraws are required.

You’ll begin with two patterns in the lower and higher octaves, then connect the registers. From there, we’ll explore different starting notes, longer variations, changes of direction, arpeggio and scale combinations, and a finale spanning the full range of the harp.

The first 12 slices are unaccompanied practice exercises. The remaining eight bring in Irish, bluesy, and New Orleans shuffle accompaniments so you can hear these ideas in different musical settings.

Every slice includes a recording synchronized with harmonica tablature and standard notation. Slow down the recordings, loop sections, and build speed at your own pace. A downloadable practice guide provides suggestions for working through the course.

You should already be comfortable playing clean single notes and draw bends. Some examples also use high-register blow bends.

Take your time, enjoy the challenge, and hear how much music you can make with those six notes!