Melodicas

Melodica – also known as melodion, pianika, melodigorn, melodihorn, klavietta – the keyboard-pneumatic instrument of the family of harmonics. The sound is taken by blowing air through a mouthpiece while pressing the keys on the keyboard to open the valve for the passage of air flow through the tabs. Mouthpiano is perfect for pre-school music education. Child receives his first experience playing keyboard instruments such as the accordion and piano, as well as preparing for mastering wind instruments.

History

The melodica was invented by the music company Hohner, in the 1950s but there had been many similar instruments in Italy since the early 1900s. Initially, the melodica was not seen as a “serious” instrument. It was not until the sixties that musicians really started to take an interest in the instrument. The composer Steve Reich and the jazz musician Phil Moore were among the first ones to use the instrument in their music. Since then, the instrument has been used in countless genres. From blues to modern pop music.

Parts

The instrument is generally a mix between an accordion and a piano. A melodica is a hand-held instrument that is equipped with a mouthpiece and a keyboard. To make the instrument play music, you must breathe in the mouthpiece while pressing one or more keys. More recent instruments are equipped with tube which is connected to the mouthpiece. In this way you can lay the instrument horizontally while you play – you don’t have to hold it up to your mouth. It is also possible to use a foot pump as a replacement for the mouth tube.

 Types

• Soprano and alto melodica gives some very high tones. Some soprano and alto melodicas have been developed to play with both hands. With the right hand you play white keys and with the left hand you play black keys
• Tenor melodica is tuned lower compared to the alto melodica and soprano. This type is played with a mouthpiece and an associated keyboard
• Bass melodica is quite rare. Since they are tuned so low, they are not used very often
• Accordina is a very special melodica that is often made of metal. However, it uses the same mechanism as a traditional melodica. An accordina does not have a keyboard but is equipped with buttons, which we also know from the accordion and concertina

Melodica voice ranges

• Soprano has the highest range and are among the most commonly used melodica type
• Alto is slightly lower in range but are nearly as common as soprano melodicas
• Tenor provides a lower range that offers a deeper sound
• Bass is lower in range and far less common that soprano, alto, and tenor melodicas

Size and octaves

Melodicas are available in two or three octaves. Many beginner versions will only have two or two and a half octaves. The best melodica for advanced players has three octaves. If you are looking for a beginner instrument that’s simple to play and for melodic lines, two octaves are enough. For those seeking an advanced instrument, look for one with three octaves. Three octaves will allow you to play a wider variety of chords throughout the instrument’s range.

Buy melodicas in Musician.UA

You can buy melodicas in our stores. It is also possible to place an order in the online shop. Thanks to the wide assortment, everyone will find a suitable product for themselves. You can always count on professional advice and assistance. We care about the quality of service and do everything we can to make sure you are satisfied with your purchase.