The harmonica is one of the classic instruments you’ll find at school.
Many of you have probably played it in music class, right?
Because it’s a simple instrument that produces sound just by blowing, even small children can play it easily—that’s the nice part.
This time, we’re introducing famous songs you’ll want to try playing on the harmonica at least once.
We’ve gathered a genre-spanning selection, from long-loved Japanese and Western songs to recent popular J-pop.
If you’re thinking, “I want to play popular songs on the harmonica,” or “I want to perform the harmonica in front of people,” be sure to use this as a reference!
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Masterpieces You’ll Want to Play on Harmonica: Top 10 Cool and Popular Songs to Perform (1–10)
swallowtail butterflyPorunogurafiti
“Agehachō” is a signature song by Pornograffitti, released in June 2001.
Its sound, featuring an oriental atmosphere with the inclusion of traditional instruments, pairs perfectly with the harmonica.
This popular song among younger listeners is also highly recommended for harmonica performance.
Key points for playing are to make the most of the light, buoyant rhythm and to convey that indescribable wistfulness through the harmonica’s tone.
By using your breath and dynamics to create contrast, you can achieve an even more beautiful performance.
Start by listening to the track and expanding your image of the song.
Blue and SummerMrs. GREEN APPLE
Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s “Ao to Natsu” is a song defined by its refreshing feel and light, upbeat rhythm.
It’s a great pick both for those in the midst of their youth and for anyone who wants to reminisce about their younger days.
When performing, focus on dynamics and a bright, breezy tone.
By subtly changing the shape of your mouth as you play, you can produce a wide range of timbres.
As the song builds toward the chorus, the key is to play with energy by varying both tone color and volume.
Cherish the song’s freshness and emotionality, and enjoy performing it together with everyone!
Wherever You AreONE OK ROCK
This song by the rock band ONE OK ROCK is included on their album Niche Syndrome, released in June 2010.
It was also featured in an NTT Docomo commercial, which catapulted it to fame.
The lyrics, centered on deep love and an eternal promise, are striking.
Taka’s soaring vocals, combined with a sound that incorporates a wide range of tones, create a truly unique world.
It’s a heartfelt love song, filled with feelings for someone special, that enjoys great popularity at weddings.
At all times.Makihara Noriyuki
Makihara Noriyuki’s “Donna Toki mo.” features a friendly, memorable melody that lingers in the heart.
Its gentle tone pairs perfectly with the harmonica.
While keeping accurate tempo and rhythm is important, aiming for a soft and tender sound that conveys the song’s warmth will make your performance even more charming.
It’s also an ideal piece for ensemble playing, combining harmonica with other instruments.
Try performing it together, synchronizing your breaths while picturing the lyrics.
idolYOASOBI
This track pairs a poppy, catchy melody with lyrics that depict the light and shadow of an idol, based on a spin-off novel by Aka Akasaka.
Released digitally in June 2023 as a song by YOASOBI, it was also used as the opening theme for the TV anime Oshi no Ko, originally created by Aka Akasaka.
The sound, reminiscent of a church choir, is striking and even carries elements of gothic rock.
Having garnered major attention both in Japan and abroad and earned high marks on various music charts, performing this song on harmonica could reveal a whole new charm.
The One and Only Flower in the WorldSMAP
SMAP’s “Sekai ni Hitotsu Dake no Hana” has a charmingly gentle and warm atmosphere.
Its simple, friendly melody makes it easy to try on the harmonica.
Since it’s a famous song widely known across generations, playing with accurate pitch is key.
By controlling your breath speed and aiming for a soft tone, you can express its cozy world.
Gently performing the interlude melody on the harmonica will further bring out the song’s appeal.
cherrysupittsu
One of Spitz’s signature songs, Cherry, has a bright, sunny vibe that pairs perfectly with the harmonica’s tone.
While it carries a cheerful image, the rhythm feels gentle, so it may be important to play each note with care.
There are sections where the same note repeats, so it’s recommended to pay attention to note separation as you play.
Also be mindful of the arrangement that gradually builds strength toward the chorus, and enjoy making music as you go.
