Hamonicafe is the name of a web series that I host where I talk about all things harmonica, and then some.

 

“Hamonicafe” is a portmanteau coined from the combination of harmonica and cafe. Furthermore, the spelling “hamonica” reflects the way that I used to say the word as a kid, unable to pronounce it properly. Thinking back as an adult, I found that endearing, plus I get the feeling that it somehow manages to capture the more playful side of the instrument.

 

I am aware that all harmonica players that came before me have fought hard to earn the harmonica recognition as a legitimate musical instrument on a par with any other. Particularly in Japan, where a lot of people see it as no more than a toy, harmonica musicians have had a very tough time.

 

I personally take this perception of the harmonica as a toy as an important and inextricable part of its identity. It’s an instrument that goes beyond music and that inhabits its own special space.

 

I invite you to join me in my quest to explore that space where the harmonica is more than just an instrument to play music, and together discover the infinite joys of the hamonica.