Celebrating Howard Levy's 10 Years with ArtistWorks
Howard Levy has officially been an ArtistWorks instructor for 10 years, teaching students all over the world how to play harmonica.
Howard’s virtuosity on the harmonica continues to stand unmatched today, over 40 years into his iconic career. Throughout his decade with ArtistWorks, he has shared his expertise with countless students, teaching harmonica lessons, songs, techniques and more.
Howard’s musical journey began as a teenager, when he figured out how to play a full chromatic scale on a standard harmonica. From that moment on, he pushed the boundaries of what this seemingly simple instrument was capable of.
The musician went on to revolutionize harmonica playing in 1970 by inventing two breathing methods known as overbending and overblowing. These techniques allow players to reach all of the notes that are “missing” from the diatonic harmonica.
In 1988, Howard co-founded the legendary group, Béla Fleck and the Flecktones. It was here that he fully channeled his love for jazz, classical music, rock, folk, Latin, and world music. Howard left the band in 1992, but not before winning a Grammy for Best Pop Instrumental for the song "The Sinister Minister."
Howard then lent his talents to several groups, including Trio Globo, Chévere de Chicago, and Acoustic Express, alongside a highly successful solo career. He has since recorded and collaborated with industry titans Dolly Parton, Bobby McFerrin and Paul Simon, solidifying his place as one of the world’s foremost harp players.
His accomplishments haven’t slowed down since joining ArtistWorks in 2009. Howard won another Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Composition for "Life in Eleven,” re-joined Béla Fleck and the Flecktones, and released a classical album featuring his “Concerto for Diatonic Harmonica and Orchestra,” the first concerto ever composed for the diatonic harmonica.
Howard continues to offer his knowledge and experience to students, still playing an integral role here at ArtistWorks even after a full decade of teaching. Whether teaching harmonica for beginners or introducing blues harmonica, cross-harp or blues harp to intermediate and advanced students, he offers a unique approach to the instrument that is sure to benefit any player.
Check out our exclusive interview with Howard and Béla Fleck, and be sure to congratulate him on this 10 year milestone!
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