HarmonicaUK Newsletter
April 2026
Wendy Wood, Acting Chair and Editor
Overview
There has been a great deal happening over the last few months, including significant changes to the organisation of Harmonica UK. The most significant change has been Gene Myers stepping down as editor and chair, due to circumstances beyond his control. This led to a period of uncertainty. I offered to serve as Acting Chair and Editor. With the help of many people, I am slowly getting to grips with what needs to be done. I thought that now was a good time to bring everyone up to speed with a newsletter. What follows is an introduction from me, a call for help, and plans for an online festival and the magazine.
Message from our new Acting Chair and Editor
Stepping into the role of Acting Chair of HarmonicaUK and Editor of Harmonica World is both a tremendous honour and a deeply humbling experience. To be entrusted with helping to lead an organisation that celebrated its 90th anniversary last year is a privilege I hold with great pride. Few musical associations reach such a milestone, and our longevity speaks to the dedication, passion, and generosity of the people who have shaped this community across nine remarkable decades. I am grateful for the chance to support HarmonicaUK in this interim period until the AGM later this year, when members will have the opportunity to elect a permanent Chair.
Before looking forward, I want to express my sincere gratitude to Gene Myers for his outstanding work as Chair. His commitment, energy, and vision have guided HarmonicaUK through a period of significant change. Gene has invested countless hours behind the scenes, always with the goal of strengthening our community and expanding opportunities for players of all levels. On behalf of our membership, I extend heartfelt thanks for everything he has contributed.
HarmonicaUK is far more than a membership organisation—it is a home for players from all walks of life, all musical backgrounds, and all stages of learning. Whether someone picks up a harmonica for the first time or has been playing for decades, they are welcomed with the same warmth and encouragement. That inclusivity reflects the instrument itself: small, portable, expressive, and capable of crossing musical and cultural boundaries with ease.
As I begin my time as Acting Chair, one of my priorities is to continue nurturing the strong sense of community that defines us. Our events—festivals, workshops, meetups, and online sessions—are powered entirely by volunteers who generously give their time to help others make music. Their dedication, often behind the scenes, is the backbone of our organisation. Over the coming months, I hope to support our volunteers more than ever and encourage new members to step forward, share their talents, and become part of the team.
The way people learn and connect has changed dramatically in recent years, and HarmonicaUK has responded with creativity and resilience. Online learning, virtual meet‑ups, and video‑based teaching now play a central role in reaching players across the UK and beyond. These digital spaces have become an essential part of who we are, and I am committed to expanding our online resources, improving accessibility, and introducing new ways for members to connect—wherever they live.
At the same time, nothing replaces the joy of meeting in person. Our live events remain vibrant spaces for collaboration, inspiration, and friendship. As we move forward, we will continue strengthening relationships with teachers, manufacturers, performers, and harmonica groups worldwide. These partnerships enrich our community and ensure that HarmonicaUK remains an important part of the global harmonica landscape.
Another area close to my heart is nurturing the next generation of harmonica players. Although many of us discovered the harmonica later in life, introducing it to young people can spark creativity and joy that lasts for decades. Over the coming year, we hope to optimise the wonderful work already happening through collaborations with schools, youth organisations, and community groups to share the instrument’s unique charm with younger audiences. In doing so, we honour our heritage while building our future.
While I may be serving as Acting Chair, the direction of HarmonicaUK is something we will shape together. Your ideas, your enthusiasm, and your participation are what make this organisation so special. I warmly invite you to reach out, get involved, and help us continue building a welcoming, inspiring space for everyone who loves the harmonica.
Thank you for your support and for the warm welcome into this role. I look forward to the journey ahead—and to the music we will make together.
Join Us and Help HarmonicaUK Change Lives Through Music
At Harmonica UK, we believe in the extraordinary power of a small instrument to make a big difference. For over 90 years, Harmonica UK has worked to bring people together through the joy of making music, supporting harmonica players of all ages and abilities across the country and across the world. But today, as interest in music participation grows and community connection becomes ever more important, we need your help more than ever.
Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. Whether you’re an experienced harmonica player, a keen organiser, a friendly communicator, or simply someone who loves helping people, you can play a vital role in our mission. By giving even a small amount of your time, you’ll be part of a welcoming, passionate community dedicated to keeping the harmonica alive, accessible, and thriving in the UK and globally.
Many people think volunteering requires specialist skills or large amounts of spare time—but that’s simply not true. What we value most is enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to get stuck in. We offer a wide range of flexible opportunities that can fit around your life, whether you have a few hours a month or just the occasional afternoon to spare. You can volunteer from home, in your local community, or at our national events—the choice is entirely yours.
Here are just a few of the ways volunteers support HarmonicaUK:
Community Outreach
Help bring music to people who need it most. Whether supporting workshops, connecting with community groups, or promoting local events, you can help us inspire new players and strengthen musical communities.
Communications & social media marketing and magazine
If you enjoy writing, content creation, or spreading the word online, your skills can help us reach new audiences, share stories, and celebrate the amazing work of our members to strengthen our public profile.
IT skills
For websites and experience with streaming and online events. Magazine production and publishing. Membership software skills and the use of AI.
Accountancy skills
To support HarmonicaUK in complying with charity laws and financial reporting rules. They manage the charity’s finances—budgeting, record‑keeping, and monitoring how funds are used. They also support trustees by providing clear financial information to support good decision-making and long-term sustainability.
Administration skills
Support trustees by organising meetings, maintaining databases, and coordinating volunteers or services. They also ensure efficient processes so the charity can focus on delivering its core mission.
Member Support
Friendly volunteers help answer enquiries, welcome new members, and ensure everyone feels part of our community—especially beginners who may be picking up the harmonica for the very first time.
Events & Festivals
Our annual events rely on cheerful, dependable volunteers to help with registration, organisation, stage support, hospitality, and more. These are fun, energetic days filled with music and connection.
Project Roles
We would welcome volunteers who enjoy planning, organising, or contributing ideas to support our ongoing development and shape the future of HarmonicaUK.
Get in touch today to find out how you can get involved:
Email: [email protected]
Together, we can keep the harmonica playing—and keep our community thriving.
Online Festival 2026
We would dearly love to have a face-to-face festival this year. It was such a wonderful festival last year to celebrate Harmonica UK’s 90th anniversary. However, we need to regroup and provide more support to maintain the level of success achieved in previous festivals. So, the plan is to have two separate Sunday events.
The dates we are working to are:
Sunday 27th September
This will include an event and the annual general meeting.
Sunday 25th October
This will be a full day of events.
More details will be forthcoming soon.
In the meantime, planning has already begun on returning to a face-to-face festival in 2027
HarmonicaUK Magazine
Sadly, due to unforeseen circumstances, we have had some difficulties in publishing the magazine. We are working hard to re-establish regular publication of a high-quality magazine that members have come to expect. This is taking some time since I have only recently transitioned into the role. Thank you for your patience. We are working hard to get back on schedule, and I am hoping to get a magazine out by the beginning of May.
We really need your help. Below are guidelines for contributing. Don’t worry if this appears technical! Send me your drafts, and I will help shape them.
What types of articles are we looking for?
Content Ideas & Editorial Focus
Our magazine reflects the richness of the harmonica community—its music, its people, and its ongoing evolution. We welcome articles that inform, educate, share personal stories, and celebrate achievements. If you’re thinking of contributing, the guide below outlines the types of content we’re keen to include.
1. Informative Articles
Articles that broaden understanding of the harmonica, its history, or the wider musical world.
Suggested topics:
Harmonica history: profiles of influential players, developments in harmonica design, landmark recordings.
Genre explorations: how the harmonica is used in folk, classical, jazz, blues, rock, world music, or emerging styles.
Maker and gear insights: behind-the-scenes looks at harmonica makers, customisers, or technicians.
Community and cultural stories: how harmonicas are used in therapy, education, outreach, or multicultural settings.
Aim for articles that teach readers something new—whether about the instrument or the people who shape its world.
2. Educational Articles
Pieces that help readers develop skills, widen their knowledge, or deepen their musical confidence.
Potential areas:
Technique tutorials: bending, overblows, tongue-blocking, articulation, vibrato, phrasing.
Musical theory for harmonica players: scales, chord structures, positions, rhythm studies.
Practice approaches: warm‑ups, structured routines, how to build repertoire, tips for progressing.
Equipment guidance: choosing a harmonica, maintaining instruments, understanding tunings and setups.
Beginner‑friendly guides: ideal for encouraging newcomers.
These articles should be clear, accessible, and practical—something readers can use.
3. Stories of Achievement and Inspiration
Human stories breathe life into the magazine. Articles celebrating individual or group achievements are always welcome.
Examples include:
Member achievements: personal milestones, performance highlights, competition entries, teaching success stories.
Group or club features: profiles of regional meet-ups, ensembles, workshops, or jam groups.
Projects and collaborations: charity events, international partnerships, creative recordings, community music projects.
Journeys of learning: how someone came back to music after decades, or how learning the harmonica changed someone’s life.
These pieces help inspire others, strengthen community spirit, and highlight the diversity of paths within harmonica playing.
4. Reviews & Recommendations
Thoughtful assessments of harmonica-related media and products.
Suitable content:
Album reviews
Gear evaluations (harmonicas, mics, amps, accessories)
Book and tutorial reviews
Event write‑ups (festivals, concerts, workshops)
Reviews should remain constructive, fair, and useful to readers.
5. Creative Contributions
A space for artistic expression related to the harmonica.
Examples:
Short reflections or personal essays
Poetry or creative writing connected to music
Original compositions or tablature
Photographic features from events or travel
These pieces can bring freshness and personality to each issue.
6. Practical Submission Guidelines
To support smooth editing and publication:
Tone: Friendly, accessible, and respectful, aimed at a diverse readership.
Images: High‑resolution photos welcome, with captions and permissions.
Originality: Articles should be original or clearly credit any sources/inspirations.
Formatting: Plain text or Word format preferred; avoid excessive styling.
Contributor Bio: 2–3 sentences about yourself, plus links if relevant.
Language: Articles must be in English
Article length
Please aim to write the following - either:
Short article - 1 page, 300 words Standard article - 2 pages, 600 words Long article - 3 pages, 900 words Feature article - 4 pages, 1200 words Photo requirements: Submit relevant photos with your article, as many and varied as possible. Photos should be JPEG format, 300dpi and a minimum 148mm wide. Submitted photos should include credits, a caption and permission to print
Submission
Articles and images can be submitted to:
[email protected]
Deadline for submission Issue month
1st January February
1st March April
1st May June
1st July August
1st September October
1st November Deccember
Upcoming Harmonica Events
Below are some of the major events happening this year. More details will be published in the next magazine. Do let us know if you have any events you would like us to feature. [email protected]
Weekly Events
HarmonicaUK Coffee Morning (Online) – Every Friday, 11 am UK time
A friendly, informal session to share, receive and offer support. More info: https://www.harmonica.uk/pages/Events
Monthly Events
HarmonicaUK Open Mic (Online) – First Saturday of every month at 5 pm UK time
A supportive space to listen or play, suitable for beginners and experienced players alike. More info: https://www.harmonica.uk/pages/Events
Annual Events
Harmonica F.E.N. Festival – Berlin, Germany (29th–31st May 2026)
Multi-genre festival with concerts at Konzerthaus Berlin and masterclasses. Details: https://harmonica-fen-festival.com/
Yellow Pine Harmonica Festival – Yellow Pine, Idaho (30th July–1st August 2026)
Long-running community harmonica festival. Info: https://www.yellowpinefestival.org/
2026 SPAH Convention – St. Louis, Missouri (11th–15th August 2026)
World-class performances, seminars, and nightly jam sessions. Hosted by the Gateway Harmonica Club. More info: https://spah.org/convention-events/2026-spah-convention/
