A trill is defined as two notes played in rapidly alternating manner. On the harmonica a trill is created either by using your mouth to move between two holes, or by moving the harmonica itself across two holes to create a continuous sound that plays two notes one after the other. Both methods of achieving this trill effect are valid and may be used. The idea is to get the notes to sound clearly and in the right rhythm.

Trills are one of the more dynamic riffs in harmonica playing. A trill can be clean or bent as the player wishes, and you know you're doing it well when it sounds clear and not too “breathy.” For instance, in the next track the player will play a trill on the 4-5 draw. Notice that bending the notes while playing the trill works very effectively and creates a nice dynamic.

FIGURE 5-10: Trills

TRACK 17