Harmonica Workshop with Danilo “Nilo” Marrone

Discover the expressive sound of the harmonica in this welcoming workshop with master harmonica player Danilo “Nilo” Marrone.

Designed for introductory through intermediate players, this hands-on workshop will focus exclusively on the standard 10-hole diatonic harmonica. Danilo will guide participants through essential skills for producing a clear, expressive sound and playing with greater confidence.

Following the workshop and a short break, Danilo perform an informal recital and participants and welcome to stay and enjoy the music.

No previous performance experience is required, but participants must bring their own 10-hole diatonic harmonica in the key of C.

WORKSHOP DETAILS

Saturday, November 21, 2026
Begins at 2:00 p.m.
Approximately two hours, plus a short break
Waikīkī Community Center
$35 per student
No refunds

Minimum age: 15

Participants under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian throughout the workshop.

LEVEL

Introductory to intermediate

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

• How to hold the harmonica
• Breath control
• Rhythm and melody
• Basic playing techniques
• Bending notes
• Ear training
• Harmonica notation
• Playing along with a backing track

WHAT TO BRING

Each participant must bring a standard 10-hole diatonic harmonica in the key of C.

Please do not bring a chromatic harmonica or a harmonica with a specialized tuning such as minor, harmonic minor, or Melody Maker. These instruments will not match the tuning and techniques used during the workshop.

Any standard model will work. Participants interested in continuing to play may wish to purchase a good-quality instrument from a manufacturer such as Hohner, Lee Oskar, or Suzuki. Standard diatonic harmonicas generally cost between $30 and $50 and may be purchased online or locally from stores such as Easy Music Center or Guitar Center.

ABOUT DANILO “NILO” MARRONE

Introducing Danilo “Nilo” Marrone—a master of the diatonic harmonica whose playing blends deep emotion with incredible technical command. Drawing on rich blues traditions and dynamic melodic phrasing, Nilo brings a warm, soulful, and captivating sound to every note. Whether laying down tight, expressive grooves or soaring through evocative solos, his performance is pure musical passion.

His interest in the harmonica was sparked by American harmonica virtuoso Peter "Madcat" Ruth, whom Marrone cites as the inspiration for starting his harmonica journey.

His repertoire spans traditional Chicago blues, jazz, folk, spirituals, classical, world-music, and original compositions.

Marrone utilizes standard 10-hole diatonic harmonicas as well as specialized tunings (such as harmonic minor harmonicas) to create distinctive modal textures and Eastern-sounding melodies.