The melodica is a free-reed aerophone that to be put into simple terms, is a small piano with a mouth piece. It is a fairly easy instrument to learn and is more affordable than most instruments.
Step 1
Buy a melodica. Check online stores such as wwbw.com or ebay.com or amazon.com. Keep in mind you want one that doesn't go to far over your budget or that's too cheap. Hohner is one of the better brands that makes melodicas, as it was their invention.
Step 2
Learn what notes are which. Once you have your melodica, learn how to move around the keyboard and to learn which notes are which. Remember if you play with the straight mouthpiece, you will have limited view of the keys.
Step 3
Find easy music. It's best to start off with something easy. If you read music, try playing simple melodies from the treble part of piano music or flute music. Other music can be played, but don't forget that many instruments are written in different keys, so it will not have the same sound on a C instrument.
Step 4
Move on to chords. One great thing about the melodica compared to other woodwinds is that it can play more than one note at a time. Experiment, have fun.
Step 5
Continue to develop your playing ability. Experiment. Play it jazzy, play vocal parts, play it like a trumpet,play it like a sax, play it like a flute, but always play it like a melodica.
Tips
- Don't overblow the instrument. Only a small amount of air is necessary.
- Obviously, some experience playing the piano or other keyboard instrument may aid you in learning to play the melodica.
