Cut Common Time
The following song features a new time signature called cut common time, or simply cut time. It is indicated by the symbol W. Cut time is also called $ time and represents two half note beats per bar. In this situation, each half note receives one count. Whole notes receive two counts, while quarter notes receive half a count. Cut common time contains basic two beats per bar, but because eighth notes are used in cut common instead of sixteenth notes, it is easier to read.
To become a versatile harmonica player is worth learning to play all the melodies presented here on the diatonic harp as well as the chromatic. It is recommended that you learn as many songs as possible on both types of harp. Although the numbering is slightly different, almost everything else is the same if you are not using the slide. Players who are comfortable with both types of harmonica are highly sought after by other musicians.
Here are two more melodies to help you become familiar with the layout of the chromatic harmonica. They both sound best when played at a fast tempo, but learn them slowly at first and then gradually increase the tempo once you are comfortable with the notes.
This one is in a minor key (key of A minor). Minor keys are discussed in detail in Lesson Ten. Minor keys are generally said to have a sadder sound than major keys.
