Sebastien Charlier Diatonic Method
« Je débute… L’harmonica Diatonique »: here is a modern educative method, "Je débute... l’harmonica diatonique" (I'm beginning to play diatonic). It has the merit to tackle teaching the Richter diatonic. The educational concept is based on a progressive discovery of the instrument by means of following a defined programme : breathing regulation, melodic ways of playing, rythmn, chords, sound effects.

A CD is enclosed in the book including the underscores of all the exercises and of successful tunes as : “Georgia on my Mind” (Ray Charles), “English Man in New York” (Sting), “The Good The Bad and The Ugly” (Morricone), “L’Irlandaise” (Didier Lockwood”), etc. Hits that instantly make you want to play them. Sebastien offers us a simple way to practise easily the Richter gymnastics. This method is concise, precise... it gives you the envy to get it and play !

A pocket edition of this method is available : “Method in the Pocket” (without CD). This pocket edition volontary contents only the basic elements necessary to discover the instrument. These books are published by “Hit Diffusion” http://www.editions-hit-diffusion.fr

For more information, have a look at the Sebastien Charlier website : http://www.sebcharlier.com , to discover the Sebastien current events like his concerts with Keith B. Brown, etc.

(Photos :Michal Rosinski, Marc Rouvé, Hohner, conception : Hit Diffusion)
Published July 7th 2008

"Les Harmonicas de France" Orchestra in Russia
European « Eurochestries » festivals are welcoming every year symphonic orchestras as well as young people choirs of a very high level, coming from Europe and from everywhere around the world : France, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Spain, Russia, China, Quebec, etc.

These festivals are an opportunity to organize international cultural meetings between composers, musicians and orchestra conductors.

This year, harmonica is honoured in the Eurochestries meetings. The iinstrument is represented by Les Harmonicas de France orchestra which is also going to take part in a european tour in Russia (have a look to our “calendar” information).

Les Harmonica de France includes 22 harmonica players (18 chromatics, 2 chords and 2 bass). The main purpose of this orchestra is to federate players and so,it includes players coming from everywhere in France. “Eurochestries”, and his dynamic founder Claude Revolte, is offering every year numbers of events to satisfy all you could wish.

Scoop: a rumour already announces concerts next year in Quebec, Canada.

Info : eurochestries.17@club-internet.fr
http://www.eurochestries.eu

(Photo: Les Harmonicas de France Orchestra in la Chapelle St André de Rézé)
Published July 1st 2008

45th SPAH Convention USA
This convention is going to take place in Saint Louis, Missouri State, from the 12th to the 16th of August.
The SPAH (Society for the Preservation an Advancement of the Harmonica) was born in 1963 in Detroit, Michigan state. It is counting today 3000 members from all over the world. It federates more than 40 associations in the USA, which makes it quite unique.
Every year, everybody meets there at this american musical "rendez-vous": concerts, open stages, workshops, conferences, excursions, closing diner and more will be offered to you, to your liking.
Information is at your disposal at: http://www.spah.org.
We wish a great success, and a Happy Birthday, to this convention.
Published June 21st 2008

"Armos" Ensemble Concert at "La Comedia"
Following the success of the last year, the parisian theater "La Comedia" presents a concert with the "Armos" ensemble* and his guests: Johnny Swinger, Giovanni Volini (Italy), Stil, Michel Sanchez, and the french/japanese Trio "Les Parisiens" (Nami Miyata, Jean Labre, Maurice Bailly).
Let's pay tribute to this place which is one of the rare theater where harmonica is welcome.
Theater "La Comedia" : 6, impasse Lamier 75012 Paris. Reservation : (33)1.43.67.20.47. & resa@la-comedia.com & entrance fee: 15€, http://www.la-comedia.com

*The "Armos" ensemble is composed of : Dominique Lannes, Gérard Margnoux, Pierre Rochat, Charles Le Croller, Jean Pierre Auger.
dominique.lannes@wanadoo.fr
Published June 11th 2008

Perfume from Far East CD
We are accustomed to listening to a lot of records produced by the western part of the world, often ignorant of music coming from far off countries, far off cultures.

We have today an opportunity to discover the traditionnal folk music from Mrs. Butterffy country. A traditional and sensitive music plaid “a cappella” by Nami Miyata with japanese tremolo harmonicas (majors, minors and pentatonics “Tombo”), with this rich harmonic range which characterizes the japanese make.

It's also an opportunity to discover Nami Miyata, not only talented harmonica player (chromatic and tremolo diatonic...) but also talented pianist.

Like a postcard, she is sending us a remarkable live performance, named " Un Tremolo à Paris ", with as a delicate ending, a parisian waltz “ La rue Mouffetard ”, dedicated to her western harmonica friends, particulary her parisian friends. The traditional music arrangements are signed by Hidero Sato and Juko Saito, legendary japanese tremolo harmonica players.

Contact : nekosakana@orange.fr

Photo and cover : Nami Miyata
Published May 20th 2008

Tokyo, April 2008, Harmonica Rendez-vous
April is a traditional cultural month in Japan, "Sakura" (cherry trees) celebration and the “Golden Week” included. This month offers also every year several harmonica concerts.

The program this year in Tokyo is :

- Tuesday April 22nd : an evening jazz session in the Nakano “Drum Club”, with the singer Satsuki Ito and Jean Labre.


- Saturday 26th : Ladies’concert in the Yakuruto Hall in memorie of Hidero Sato, featuring : Mitsue Kusunoki and Hiromi Terasawa.
Sunday 27th : AJHF (“All Japan Harmonica Federation”) Convention with an evening concert, guest Jean Labre.


- Monday 28th : International Concert at the Katsushika Symphonie Hills, featuring Joe Powers (USA) and Jean Labre.

- Monday May 5th : Ladies’concert at the Session Suginami Hall, featuring : ”Comment Allez-vous" Trio (Nami Miyata, Reina Oba, Aya Kurada).

For more information, click on our calendar page.
Published March 28th 2008

"Les Rossignols Quatuor"
"Les Rossignol" is a burlesque group. They have proved to be an outstandingly successful and atypical attraction in such varied fields and places as concert hall, theatre, variety and cabaret.
It's their real musicianship and fine artistry allied to their creative energy which make audiences from everywhere acclaim this talented group.

We particulary know Pierre Gaudin, compère of this quatuor.
Pierre plays piano, accordion, trombone, tuba and incidentally... harmonica.

He has been an enthusiastic accompanist since the nineties everytime someone needs a pianist in harmonica concerts, festivals and championships... and first of all, of course he is the favourite accompanist of his mother, Monique, the oldest lady harmonica player in France.

website : http://www.myspace.com/lesrossignols^
Photo : Rossignols
Published February 11th 2008

Special Claude GARDEN
Already three years... Three years since the day he died in St. Joseph Hospital in Paris. He now lies in Bagneux cimetery(1) six feet under a discreet tombstone. Henceforth the only way to chat with him is to use a flowery language... what could be more natural for some one called “Magic Garden”, he who made us all dream for more than a half century.
Three years... during which media have kept an indifferent silence. In front of this unbearable situation the Harmonica de France Federation has decided to publish, in December, a special issue entirely devoted to Claude Garden and I warmly recommend it to you.
This interesting publication contains : a biography*, about thirty illustrations, unpublished documents, numerous interviews from everywhere around the world and a complete discography.
Harmonicas de France had received many contributions from french and foreign correspondants. A real good job which deserves many thanks to the staff of this magazine, especially to its editor, Bernard Germain.

J.L.

If you are interested in this publication (published in french), please send your command with an international money order of 10 euros, to :
“Harmonicas de France”, 4 rue Denfert Rochereau, 89000 AUXERRE FRANCE.

(1) Bagneux (92220) Parisian cimetery. Concession : 94 TR 2004, situated : 57, 18, 13, tomb Claude Garden.

For more information in English concerning Claude Garden click on “Articles” in this website.
Published December 10th 2007

Trossingen-BAU V, Universal Expo
A world top event is going to happen : the mythic BAU V, thank to Martin Haffner, is going to open its gates to celebrate the 150 years of life of a very dear to us musical instrument : the harmonica.

150 years tightly linked with Hohner Company,and you will see there an exhibition of historical treasures on loan to the BAU V for this occasion.

There'll be showrooms, conferences telling the flourishing past life of the BAU V and, for example, a surprising radio sequence : Walter Schira, astronaut in the space capsule Gemini, playing " Jingle Bells " on the Little Lady, the smallest harmonica of the world.

Don't miss this celebration, it's so exceptional to have 150 years !!

*you can read our article on the « BAU V » published on April
the 7th 2006.
*the " Little Lady " is now in the National Space Museum in
Washington D.C.(USA)

9th September until the 4th November.
Infos expo : http://www.harmonika-museum.de
phone : 07425.21623
Deutsches Harmonikamuseum, Löwenstr. 11, Trossingen Germany
Published September 3rd 2007

2007 SPAH Convention, Milwaukee USA
As it was said in our calendar, this Convention is going to take place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from the 16th to the 19th of August in the Sheraton Brookfield Hotel.

The SPAH (Society for the Preservation and Advancement the Harmonica) was born in 1962 in Detroit, Michigan. It federates more than 40 associations in USA which makes it quite unique.
Every year, people from everywhere are meeting there... at this Uncle Sam's rendez-vous. Concerts, open stages, workshops, conferences, excursions, closing dinner and more are offered to you, to your liking (a visitor package for all the convention events will cost you 210 $).
We wish a great success to this Convention

Jean Labre

Information : http://www.spah.org .

Photo Spah/Harmonica Happening
Published June 14th 2007

"La Comedia" Rendez-Vous
"Armos" group concert. This quintet includes : Pierre Rochas (chromatic harmonica, violin), Gérard Margnoux (chromatic), Dominique Lannes (chromatic), Charles Le Croller (chromatic, guitar), Jean Pierre Auger (guitar).
Guests : Johnny Swingers (chromatic), Bernard Dubos (chromatic, diatonic), Michel Sanchez (chromatic), the french/japanese trio "Les Parisiens" with Nami Miyata (chromatic and tremolo), Jean Labre (chord/polyphonia), Maurice Bailly (bass), the "Stil" trio with Jean François Laurion, Bernard Poulverel (chromatic), Régine Laurion (piano).
The concept of this Spring rendez-vous gives the opportunity to "le grand public" to discover the magic range of the most popular instrument of the world, from Johann Sebastian Bach to Fats Waller and from the "Marine Band" to the "chord". Thank's to the organizers Dominique Lannes, Gérard Margnoux and Pierre Rochat.

Photo affiche (Dominique Lannes)
Published May 20th 2007

A French Fortnight in Japan
This event took place in Shizuoka, town twined with the French city of Cannes. This festival was organized by the French-Japan association and his president Kei Shionoya (Grand Prix de l’Académie Française for foreign writers*).

A fortnight dedicated to musical and cultural rendez-vous around cinema, painting, with meetings and conferences, and a special honor guest : the mouth organ, officially presented, on April the 19th, in an opening concert in the Shizuoka AOI hall with Nami Miyata, Maki Yamaguchi and Jean Labre.

This event has also been celebrated, on April the 16th, in Tokyo, by the “Japon Radieux” concert. With, at the program, the girls harmonica trio “ Comment allez-vous ? ”, Nami Miyata, Reina Obe, and Aya Kuroda with the French pianist Yves Pelras.

This concert has been followed on the 24th, by an evening with the “Amateurs de la Musique Friendship Club" where the jazz singer Satsuki Itho and Jean Labre will perform.

Due to a calendar coincidence, the AJHF convention (All Japan Harmonica Federation) took place the last week of April in the Juraku hotel. Beginning with a concert on the opening night, the 28th, with the virtuoso Yasuo Watani, Akemi Iwama and Yuko Yanagawa performing in the Ino concert hall. The annual general meeting followed on the Sunday, brought to a close by a dinner concert with Jean Labre, guest of this convention.

* Prix Roland de Jouvenel for his book « Cyrano et les samouraï ».
Published April 9th 2007

Hohner is 150 years old
Following our recent article, Hohner is informing us of the launching of 3 new models commerating its "150th anniversary".
The references are : "Standard Edition", "Chrom Edition", "Gold Edition".

Fore more information, have a look at our article concerning Hohner, click on "Articles". You can also see the Hohner website http://www.hohner.fr.

Photo Hohner : the Standard Edition.
Published March 19th 2007

Pete Pedersen, biography of a legend
The great Jerry Murad had said : “The definition of Pete Pedersen in my musical dictionnary is : the finest of all around harmonica player, composer/arranger in the world. Jazz, classical, pop, country, you name it, he does everything. He is the best. I ought to know, I’ve heard them all.”
Pete got his break into the business through Borrah Minevitch famous ensemble, collaborated to various influencial Harmonica trios and finally went solo.
The website, http://www.petepedersen.com presents the newly realised biography : Be of Good Cheer, Memories of Harmonica Legend Pete Pedersen, written by his partner in life Jaine Rodack. The book collect stories about his life, anecdotes, photos and more.
Pete was my friend. Congratulations Jaine, great Job.
Jean Labre
Photo : Book front cover
Published January 20th 2007

HARMO - BEAUJO 2006
As an introduction, this title needs an explanation. Harmo-beaujo is a contraction of two words : Harmonica and beaujolais and more specifically Beaujolais nouveau (new Beaujolais). The new Beaujolais is the first yearly production of wine in France, following the September grape harvest. It's a light wine officially on sale every year on the 16th of November. Harmo-Beaujo is a friendship rendez-vous around a bottle of Beaujolais nouveau. It's also an event in Japan, the first Harmo-beaujo" event was created in Tokyo, in November 1999, in a concert sponsorised by Air France and the Beaujolais. Jean Labre performed during this concert.
Since 2000, Harmo-beaujo has been a yearly traditional harmonica rendez–vous in Paris.It's a dinner concert including harmonica players and friends from everywhere. It took place this year in "Le Bercy" restaurant.

The program included the B.B. Blues Band with Joel Hanriot and Romain Petite (keyboard). Joël made once more time the demonstration of what is his best : the overblows, and a strong presence on stage.

The french japanese harmonica trio "Les Parisiens" with Nami Miyata as soloist playing chromatic and tremolo harmonicas, thus giving to the trio an atypical repertoire conbining Japan refinement with occidental musical culture. Maurice Bailly was playing bass harmonica and Jean Labre chord.

The "Harmo-Beaujo" dinner concert is traditionally animated by Jean Labre and guests invited to take part in jam sessions. Among other friends, this year : Giovanni Volini (mister Harmonica in Italy) just arrived from Milano.

A Friday night fever lived in the true "France Harmonica" tradition. photos : Giovanni Volini, Philippe Delbourg.
Published December 8th 2006

Harmonica Method - Pierre Couteau
This new educational book has the credit to tackle the teaching of the three basic instruments composing traditional harmonica bands, which are : chromatic, bass and chord/polyphonia.
Everything is clear and well explained.
Who is Pierre Couteau ? To get acquainted to him, let's go back in time. Everything is beginning in the sixties when Pierre wins, as chromatic soloist, the Delft world Championships (Holland), 1965, with his Trio "Les Trois de l'Harmonica". Then the trio played at concerts in France and Europe until 1985. Nowadays Pierre is oboe soloist in the Bordeaux City Philharmonic Orchestra ; he also is the soul of "Harmonica 17 Orchestra", rewarded for its performances in the last two World Championships in Trossingen.
This book is a reminder of Al Smith teaching publications (USA, beginning of the nineties : "Easy Trio & quartet Harmonica Arrangements"and "Chugger's Manual for Chord Harmonica").
If you are interested in Pierre Couteau's method,(available in French only), please contact him directly and send your order to : Pierre Couteau, residence "Baie St. Paul", 43 chemin dde la Maison Rouge, 17500 Jonzac, France.
Info : francoise.terminet@neuf.fr Tel : (33) 5 46 48 24 49
Price : 37 euros (mailing included) payable by international money order.
Pierre doesn't speak English so, for more information, please contact our mail box on http://www.jeanlabre.com
Photo : Book cover
Published October 4th 2006

Harmoliege 2006 - Harmonica in Belgium
The Belgian National Harmonica Association, CROCH'ASBL is organizing its 8th International Festival in Liège, from October the 5th to the 8th. Croch'Asbl welcomes a variety of instruments such as : guitar, banjo, violon, mandoline, etc.
Emile Gregoire is President of the association and is helped by his daughter Annick. The President d'Honneur is M. le Baron Toots Thielmans himself.
The program includes this year : Hermine Deurloo, Barefoot Lano, Keith Dunn, Steven De Bruyn, J.J. Milteau, Howard Levy, etc. You are required to vote for your favourite artists to whom Cristal Harmonicas will be presented after the results.
Information : http://www.harmoliege.be
photo : Croch'Asbl
Published September 12th 2006

Freddy Della at the Petit Journal on September 5, 2006
Freddy is an harmonicist specialist of " one man shows ", in France. He usually gives more than a hundred concerts a year, those concerts being explosive cocktails mixing country music, blues and variety. And all well organized by an efficient logistic team.
Gifted harmonica player (diatonic and chromatic) he is also a talented singer, drummer and presenter, Freddy Della has all necessary qualities to run a one man show.
This time, it will be at the Petit Journal Montparnasse, on September the 5th with his Conchoux Garrio's Band, with Isabelle Graf at the keyboard, guitar Dominique Garriot, violin Thierry Lecoq, drums Christophe (and also Freddy), bass Patrick Conchoux ; vocals : Babette Lecompte, Isabelle Graf, Irène Russel and Freddy Della.
More information : http://www.freddydella.com

Photo : Freddy Della
Published August 22nd 2006

SPAH Convention 2006, Denver USA
As it was said in our calendar, this Convention is going to take place in Denver, Colorado, from the 15th to the 19th of August 2006, in the Renaissance Hotel.
The Spah (Society for the Preservation and Advancementof the Harmonica) was born in 1962 in Detroit, Michigan. It is counting to-day 3000 members from all over the world. It federates more than 40 associations in USA which makes it quite unique.
Every year, everybody meet there at this american musical rendez-vous. Concerts, open stages, workshops, conferences, excursions, closing dinner and more will be offered to you, to your liking.
Information are at your disposal at : http://www.spah.org
We wish a great success to this Convention and also to Paul Davies, Spah President, to his vice presidents : Jack Ely and the tireless Norm Dobson, as well as to the Association Board team.
With a thought full of emotion to my friend Douglas Tate.
Jean Labre
Photo Spah/harmonica Happenings
Published June 23rd 2006

Paris Jazz Festival 2006
Every year, the jazz best musicians are playing at the Parc Floral de Paris, esplanade du Châtau de Vincennes,75012 Paris. It happens right now, from June the 10th to the 30th of July. Sitting in a beautiful garden , you can listen to Jean Jacques Milteau Quintet and Patrick Verbeke Quintet on July the 8th, to Sébastien Charlier-Sourisse Quartet on July the 22nd and to many other great names as Ahmad Jamal Trio, Didier Lockwood Quartet, Richard Galliano "Tangaria Quartet" and much more.
Concerts are at 3.30 p.m. They are free. You must only pay for the parc entrance.
Information : http://www.parisjazzfestival2006.com
Published June 16th 2006

Steve Baker - International Harmonica Master Workshops
From November 1st - 5th 2006 Steve Baker will be presenting the 3rd Harmonica Masters Workshops in Trossingen (Germany), a four day educational event for diatonic harp featuring himself, Joe Filisko, David Barreth and Marc Breitfelder as instructors. Information and registration forms for this event can be found on the Trossingen website : http://www.trossingen.de (in German & English).
During the 2007 summer, Steve is planning to take the Harmonica Masters Workshops on the road and to present the event in three other European countries : France, Sweeden and Great Britain. It will be again with himself, Joe and David, plus national artists in each country. In France Greg Szlapszynski has agreed to work with Steve in Paris, using his school facilities and presenting concerts and sessions in the Utopia Club (have a look at our article concerning the Utopia club).
But, first of all, Trossingen in november this year.
Published June 6th 2006

Japan : Introduction concerts in japanese primary schools

In japan, a large introduction to harmonica campaign is taking place at the moment in primary schools, (tremolo, chromatic harmonicas and ensembles). It generally takes place in playgrounds or sports hall, in front of a very young attentive audience.

This campaign is held on the Japanese Harmonica Federation (A.J.H.F.)initiative, the federation caring for the logistics helped by local sponsors. The Federation groups together 16 associations, the head office is in Tokyo.
This campaign is encountering a great success. Just back from Japan where I've been witness of the efficiency of the system, I think that it is an exemple to follow.

The Japanese Federation is also taking part in an action to help children suffering of respiratory maladies. Using the harmonica as a physical (because it's a draw and blow musical instrument) and psychological (music as a source of pleasure) therapy tool is giving good results.

In France, the association "Musique et santé"is working on the same basis with also very good confirmed results.
An article on the subject was published in France Harmonica revue N°39 (summer 2002). We'll publish it again very soon on this site.
Published April 29th 2006

Hugo Diaz CD, the Legend
If you are an harmonicist and record collector you must have in your collection at least one of Hugo Diaz cds. This Argentinian virtuoso (1927-1977), praised by Larry Adler, Toot's Thielemans, etc., who played at the Scala de Milan with opera singers like Tebaldi or Mario del Monaco, would be pleased to know that a CD has been recently edited in the memory of Carlos Gardel.
It is a new masterization of an album recorded by Hugo Diaz in Argentina, just before his death. The title of which is : Hugo Diaz Hommage à Carlos Gardel.
Reference : Iris Music, distribution Harmonia Mundi 3001 941 HM 77.
Published April 29th 2006

Olivier Ker Ourio - New website - Concerts
Olivier is inviting us to visit his new website, http://www.kerourio.com, in which we discover a large range of columns : events, biography, music scores to load, videos including : the presentation of his last album "Siroko", with Ralph Towner and Heiri Kaenzig, his concert with the quartet "A Rise with the wind", with Toot's Thielemans himself as guest, two videos with Daniel Waro, etc.
And the announcement of 22 summer concerts in France, Switzerland , Germany, Ireland and Réunion island.
Information for the concerts : justalex@noos.fr ).
Published April 10th 2006

Trossingen - Let save the "Bau V"
The Situation :
During the last 20 years, nearly all the large production buildings of the world renowned companies Messner, Weiss, Koch and Hohner have been demolished, after an existence of 140 years. To-day the only remaining building which reminds us of the peak of the harmonica world industry, is in danger of being destroyed : the "Bau V" in the Hohner factory. This unique stone witness to the history of Hohner can no longer be retained by it's current owner, the town of Trossingen.
The rescue plan :
To save this building, Martin Häffner, manager of the Harmonica Museum in Trossingen, is proposing to create a Foundation.
The Goal of the German Harmonica Museum and of many harmonica friends around the world is to save the "Bau V" and to use a part of it, if possible an entire storey, for the harmonica scene of today and tomorrow. The "Harmonikawelt Bau V" project will belong to the foundation, that will ensure the retention of the largest remaining harmonica factory building.
The benefits for the harmonica world are obvious. During the gradual renovation, the "Harmonica-Floor" will be used for :
-special exhibitions organized by the Harmonica Museum ;
-presentation from external institutions and people ;
-lectures, meetings and performances from harmonicas players ;
-an harmonica and accordion library ;
-a "Club Room", meeting and recreation spot for the worldwide harmonicas friends ;
-a"Hall of Fame" with a large memorial tablet where the names of famous musicians and of all patrons of the "Bau V" project (your name will be immortalised for a donation of 50 euros) will appear.
What to do :
The share certificates are on sale since the 1st of November 2005. Further donations for the foundation will also be collected. By the buying and securing of "Bau V", by the end of 2006, the first stage of our aims will be reached.
The current position and development of the project can be followed on this homepage : http://www.harmonika-museum.de .
For more information e-mail address : HarmonikaM@aol.com .
Address : Harmonica Museum, "Harmonicawelt Bau V", Löwenstrasse 11
78647 Trossingen Germany.
Photos German harmonika museum Trossingen.
Published April 7th 2006

"Armos" Band
Born in 2003, the Armos is a band of six professional musicians. Pierrre Rochat , composer, violinist and chromatic harmonica player is the musical director.
The musicians are: Gérard Margnoux, chromatic harmonica teacher in several music schools in Paris (a reference); Charles Le Croller, guitarist (chromatic harmonica and guitare teacher); Bernard Dubos, chromatic and diatonic soloist; Dominique Lannes, chromatic soloist and also violonist ( specialist of Bach repertoire); Jean Pierre Auger, guitarist playing classical music as well as jazz, giving to this ensemble an atypical accompaniment.
Sébastien Charlier, diatonic, and Jean Buecher, chord polyphonia, sometimes complete this ensemble, for our great pleasure. And more than that : for the first time diatonic and chromatic harmonicists are playing (Bach or Count Basie who cares...), together side by side on stage, and we greet this with a big applause.

If you want to know more there is an article in France Harmonica Revue N°45
Contacts : Gérard Margnoux, 33 1 45 04 83 13 (phone), 33 1 40 21 33 60 (fax)
E-mail : dominique.lannes@wanadoo.fr
Published March 20th 2006

The Raisner Trio is back
Like a phoenix, the Trio Raisner is back again with a CD that will please every harmonica legend lover. It's a good reason for records shops to remember that the mouth organ music is still alive. Produced recently by ILD label this "Trio Raisner" album is a compilation of 24 titles recorded between 1952 and 1959 : "Le Canari", "Le Barbier de Seville", "Janine", "La danse du sabre", etc. (Reference : ILD 642241 Contact : ildyhf@wanadoo.fr)
This CD has been realized with a new remastering process. The ILD label has been accustomed to produce harmonica records for a long time (ex. Claude Garden).
We still have in memory the music-hall style performances of the Trio Raisner, in the burlesque tradition of the "Borrah Minevitch's Rascals". It's worthy of a DVD record. May be one day...
Published March 11th 2006

Japanese Ladies' Trio "Comment allez-vous?"
A new japanese trio is born : "Comment allez-vous ?" It is a feminine trio with Nami, Reina Oba and Aya kuroda. Their artistic sensibility is at the same time japanese and occidental. They are playing tremolos, chromatic and bass harmonicas, with musical arrangements Vinetta style.
Most of the pieces are their own compositions and arrangements. Their concert will be on the 20th of April 2006, in Tokyo and Jean Labre will also be showing in this concert.
Published March 6th 2006

J.J. Milteau Concerts 2006
It is a real big event : Jean-jacques Milteau is inviting Michelle Shocked for twelve exceptionnal evenings and twenty four concerts, with on the programme blues, jazz, country and rock... A skilful combination of emotions, a very happy show.

Jean-Jacques MILTEAU Quintet invite Michelle SHOCKED
Manu GALVIN - guitare ;
Benoit SOURISSE - Fender Rhodes ;
Jean-Michel CHARBONNEL - c.basse ;
André CHARLIER - batterie ;
Michelle SHOCKED - vocal ;
Jean-Jacques MILTEAU - harmonica

The dates are :
Friday 3 of March at 10 p.m.
Saturday 4 of March at 8.30 p. and at 10 p.m.
Wednesday 8 of March at 10 p.m.

Thursday 9 of March à 8.30 p.m. and at 10 p.m.
Friday 10 of March at 8.30 p.m. and at 10 p.m.
Saturday 11 of March at 8.30 p.m. and at 10p.m.
Sunday 12 of March at 5.30 p.m. and at 8.30 p.m.
Thursday 16 of March at 8.30 p.m. and at 10 p.m.
Friday 17 of March at 8.30 p.m. and at 10 p.m.
Saturday 18 of March at 8.30 p.m. and at 10 p.m
Sunday 19 of March at 5.30 p.m. and at 8.30 p.m

There is also Jean-Jacques new album, "Fragile",
moving and sincere, with his impeccable musicians and gifted singers.

MEET US ON SUNSET-SUNSIDE.COM http://www.sunset-sunside.com
Published March 5th 2006

Asia Pacific Festival 2006 in Taiwan
Taiwan was the first in 1996, then it was Kuala Lumpur in 1998, Seoul 2000, Atsugi-Tokyo 2002 and Hong Kong in 2004. The 6th Asia Pacific Festival will be held this year in Taiwan, from the 3rd to the 6th of August.

The concept of this festival which has a world success, is based on four main events, as it is for all the great harmonica festivals in the world.Thoses four events are : a competition, concerts, open stages and workshops.

Except for the two first festivals, I participated to all and noted that the attendance figures reached every time record levels and the other results were what are dreaming of organizers of occidental festivals. There were 28000 visitors at Atsugi plus 1052 competitors ; competitors were 1585 in Hong Kong ! And each time the organization was unfailing and the schedule respected.

In the artistic program of this year we find the following names : He Jia-Yi, Jens Bunge, Yasuo Watani, Peter Madcat Ruth, Naoko Takeuchi, Willi Burger, Yoshio Morimoto, etc.
http://www.2006aphf.org.tw
Published February 8th 2006

Diatonic Courses with Michel Herblin
Michel Herblin is informing you about his training courses, from introduction to improvement level, in Périgord
Noir : "Just to make your mouth water and to titillate you ears, I inform you of the existence of harmonica training courses (individual courses, from 2 to 4 days), my way, with gastronomic accomodation and innovative work methods. These which will enable you :
- to develop your sense of improvisation ;
- to sharpen you imagination towards original phrasings ;
- to explore scales and unusual modes, thus travelling at ease on harmony ;
- to practice off he beaten tracks in numerous musical styles ;
- to enhance and to open your play by improving your instrumental technical performances ;
- to enjoy yourself studying an original repertoire of emotionaly rich compositions ;
- introduction to musical computing (Cubase Audio + Band in a box) ;
- creation of work sequences ;
- composition / pre-arrangements of your melodic ideas ;
- audio recording of your harmo parties and recording your souvenir CD with play-backs to go on working at home. "

If all this appeals to you, information and contact Michel Herblin : phone: 06 09 82 19 17 or mail : michel.herblin@wanadoo.fr
Published February 4th 2006

A new trio : "Les Parisiens"
A new trio is born, on Nami Miyata initiative, Nami actually living in France, the most parisian among the japanese harmonica players.
In this trio, Nami is the soloist playing on the chromatic harmonica (Hohner Super 64X) but also on traditional japanese "tremolo" harmonicas (diatonic and pentatonic Tombo). This is giving to the formation an atypical repertoire, influenced by the Japan refinement combined with the occidental harmonica culture.
Maurice Bailly is playing on bass (he was bassist for the Hotvill's and the "Amuse Gueules"), and Jean labre is playing on chord. Their repertoire try to keep the concept of the traditional trio, the tones combination of the instruments and arrangements highlighting it. A very varied repertoire, ranging from traditional to jazz and variety.
They have already performed several times ; their first concert was in Paris, at the "Espace Japon", in Spring 2005, and it has been a promising success.
Contact : http://www.jeanlabre.com/english/contact.html
Photo JC Gard
Published February 3rd 2006

Convention Japanese A.J.H.F. Association
This traditionnal "Golden weeks"
rendez-vous includes two events
which are : on the Saturday evening,
sponsored by the "Club Hidero Satoh",
a concert in the "Yamaha Concert Hall",
with the participation of japanese
virtuosos .
And on Sunday, the A.J.H.F.
(All Japan Harmonica Federation)
General Meeting, brought to a close
by an evening dinner-concert
with Jean Labre as Convention guest .
Published February 2nd 2006

Utopia Café-Concert
The Utopia is one of the few places in Paris where you can listen to harmonica concerts, blues, jazz or country style.

Its success is mostly due to Jean-Jacques Milteau who was there at the beginnning in the eighties and is still often there, and to Jacques, the owner of the place.

Greg Szlapczinski, later on, also contributed to this success by organizing master classes and evening concerts.

The Utopia is open at 10 p.m. every evening except Sundays. Harmonica concerts are often on Monday evenings.

L'Utopia 79 rue de l'Ouest 75014 Paris, métro Pernety.
Phone : 33 1 43 22 79 66 http://www.utopia-cafeconcert.fr

This cafe-concert is also an harmonica school giving three month training courses. Information : Souffle du Blues
1 rue Niepce 75014 Paris. Phone : 33 1 42 78 22 70
Published February 2nd 2006

Major Pigalle, Hohner's Day
Every first thursday of each month, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the music store Major Pigalle, repairs, on the spot, all the harmonicas of the Hohner brand.

During this day, you'll find there a counter with technicians specially sent from Semur en Auxois, headquarters of Hohner France.

Apart from Hohner, Major Pigalle also sells all the other harmonica brands. Roland and Dominique, lords of the house, will reserve you the warmest welcome.

Major Pigalle 3 rue Duperré 75009 Paris métro Pigalle.
Phone : 33 1 48 74 24, Fax : 33 1 42 81 20 58, http://www.majorpigalle.com
Published February 2nd 2006

Nami Miyata
Nami, talented pianistand harmonicist, is a performer and an accompanist of a rare delicacy. She has taken part in numerous harmonica festivals in Europe and Asia. She has accompanied the best harmonicists (and among them the most late lamented Claude Garden) and more recently, in France, Opera singers.
In 2003, in Japan, she has created an harmonica group " Comment allez-vous ? ".
In 2005, Nami gave a concert which attracted particular attention, at the Espace Japon in Paris, with a trio " Les parisiens ". Admitted in 2005 in the University Paris 8, in musiclogy, she is preparing a dissertation on " L’harmonica dans le jazz. "
Nami Miyata also teaches tremolo diatonic and chromatic harmonica... and japanese, as well as piano.
You can phone her at : 06 09 55 27 83 or send her a mail : namimiya@tree.odn.ne.jp
Published January 31st 2006

Fata Morgana Anniversary Concert
The 25 years anniversary concert of Fata Morgana quartetis taking place at the De Hofnar Theater, Vakenswaard, Holland.
The choir "Southern Comfort Barber Mates" from Eindoven will be the guest of this event. The new Fata Morgana CD ("Stuttin'with some Harmonica") will be presented during this performance.
Tickets : 10 euros. Information: http://fatamorganamusic.nl
Published January 30th 2006

All Charlie Mc Coy Concerts
For more information about the concerts, we suggest you to contact his agent Philippe Kulzack, or Francine, tel : (33)3.88.69.32.89. http://www.charliemccoy.com
Published January 30th 2006

Francfort Musik Messe
This is the only event of its kind. It is the only moment of the year when you can discover nearly all the music instruments of the world. And to begin with, the most important harmonica brands, welcoming you on their stands, demonstrating their last models. It is also the meeting place for harmonica players from all countries.
Published January 27th 2006

Harmonicas sur Cher 06 Festival

This is one of the top european events of the year. Each year you can meet there the best of the harmonica planet. With this year : Paul Lassey, Eric Frère Jacques "Les contes du Mississipi", Olivier Goulet "Le Monde de Kota", "Karl W. Davis & the Milkmen", "Iano Barefoot", Laurent Maur and "l'Orlando Poléo Sextet", Claude Saubestre and Nami Miyata, and on the Saturday night "Sébastien Charlier Quartet". You will have three full days of workshops and open stages non stop.
Jean Labre will give a lecture Saturday afternoon at the cinema "Le Petit Casino", the subject is :" Once upon a time the harmonica".
May 24/25/26/27. 2006
Information http://www.harmonicasurcher.com
Published January 27th 2006

Harmonica chromatic Tremolo SUZUKI SCT 128
The Suzuki Chromatic Tremolo SCT 128 is a revolution in the present harmonica little world.
It enables the traditional diatonic tremolo harmonica to enter to the chromatic family, and thus, it offers a new choice repertoires, close to the accordions one, with a similar brillant sound due to the same tuning concept. I like playing "musette" waltz on the SCT 128.
This instrument is also perfectly adapted to world music performances, etc. A combination chromatic-diatonic/diatonic-tremolo: what a great idea !
Suzuki Corp. made it.
Published January 22nd 2006

Parisian meetings at the Café Bistrot " Le Lien "
From now on, the usual meetings led by Jean Labre, on the first Saturday of each month, are going to take place in the above café.
The first meeting in January was a success and had a capacity audience. We think that from now on, it is better for you to make a reservation for your lunch, either in our section "contact " or by phone at the : (33)1 42 03 10 06.
Published January 15th 2006

August 10th - 15th 2008
"Blues Week 2008", workshops, concerts, open stages.
Northampton University, Northampton, UK. info@euroblues.co.uk & http://www.euroblues.co.uk

August 12th - 16th 2008
45th SPAH Convention, concerts, open stages, workshops, meetings.
Sheraton Westport Chalet, 191, Westport Plaza, Saint Louis, Missouri, MO 63146, USA. Info : http://www.SPAH.org
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August 13th - 27th 2008
Eurochestries, "Les Harmonicas de France Orchestra" Tour (22 performers), conducted by Pierre Couteau.
Syzran, Samara province, Russia. Info : http://www.eurochestries.eu .

August 13th 2008
Michel Herblin, Jazz, Blues, World, Latin, rendez-vous
Place de L'Eglise, St. Julien de Lampton, 24370 France. 9pm.

August 16th 2008
"Atlantic Canada Harmonica Festival", workshops, séminars, concerts, scènes ouvertes.
Charlotte Lake, New Scotland, Canada. info@heritagevillage.ca & http://www.harmonica-festival.ca

August 16th - 21st 2008
Festival "Mundharmonika Live", concerts, open stages, worshops repair shop.
Kligenthal, Germany. Info : http://www.mundharmonika-live.de & mundharmonika-live@kligenthal.de

September 4th - 6th 2008
"10th Bean Blossom Blues Fest" workshops, concerts, open stages.
Bean Blossom, Indiana, USA. Info : john@harpdepot.com & http://www.bean-blossomblues

September 6th 2008
Diner Concert Johnny Swinger
"L'Olympe", 130, Av. Henri Barbusse, 92700 Colombes France. 8pm. Reservation: (33)1.47.86.14.05.

September 6th 2008
Jean Labre Monthly meeting
Café "Le Lien", 237, rue de Bercy, 75012 Paris. 12 am to 6pm. Info : (33)1. 42 03 10 06.

September 6th 2008
"NHL Harmonica Day"
Sible, Heddingham, Essex, UK. Info : gopher@internet-gopher.com & http://www.harmonica.co.uk

September 12th - 14th 2008
Concerts Charlie Mc Coy
Salle des Fêtes, Parc Hippodrome, La Tour Salvagny 69890 France. Info : (33)4.78.48.02.37 & http://www.charliemccoy.com

September 12th - 15th 2008
Salon de la Musique including participation of Harmonica makes.
Parc des Expositions, hall 4, Porte de Versailles, 750115 Paris. Info : communication@parisexpo.fr & hohner@hohner.fr

September 27th - 28th 2008
"Harmonica 17" association, 20th Anniversary.
Foyer Municipal & Salle "Oléon", 17620 Echillais France. 3 to 8.45pm. Info : harmonica17@club-internet.fr & labrej@club-internet.fr

September 28th 2008
Concert Stevie Wonder
POPB, Palais Omnisports Bercy, 8, blv. de Bercy, 75012 Paris. Info, ticketing : www.livenation.fr & rtl.fr & ticketnet.fr & bercy.fr & fnac.fr

October 3rd - 4th 2008
Harmoliege/Harmonicas de Cristal
Centre Culturel Chenee, Belle Ile, (Liège), Belgium. Info : croch@skynet.be & http://www.harmoliege.be

October 4th 2008
Monthly meeting Jean Labre
Café "Le Lien", 237, rue de Bercy, 75012 Paris. 12am to 6pm. Info : (33)1.42 03 10 06

October 24th 2008
Festival International 2008, sponsorship NHL
Folk House, Bristol, UK. Info : petewh@microsoft.com & http://www.harmonica.co.uk

November 1st - 4th 2008
7th Asian Pacific Harmonica Festival (concerts, championships, open stages, workshops).
Hangzhou, 50 Huil Ongmia, China 310004. Info : http://www.hzdmjy.com & miss Cui Xia, Fax : 86-571-872-961-45, E-mail : xiacui@yahoo.cn

November 8th 2008
Monthly meeting Jean Labre
Café "Le Lien", 237, rue de Bercy, 75012 Paris. 12am to 6pm. Info : (33)1. 42 03 10 06

November 15th 2008
An evening "Johnny Swinger", guest "Still Trio".
"Le Moulin à Café", 9, place de la Garenne,¨Paris 75014. Info : (33)1.42.42.62.20

November 21st 2008
Concert Diner "Harmo-Beaujo" Jean Labre.
O'Cantina Café. 161, Av. Daumesnil, 75012 Paris. Info : 01.42.03.10.06.

December 6th 2008
Monthly meeting Jean Labre
Café "Le Lien", 237, rue de Bercy, 75012 Paris. Info : (33)1. 42 .03 10 06