The Harmonica, sometimes called the mouth organ, is an instrument with a unique sound. While it is not mainstream, some harmonica tunes have become iconic in their own right, such as the Ennio Morricone’s harmonica track in “Once a Time in the West” or in Britain, the theme tune of “Last of the Summer Wine”.
Arguments rage over the ‘best’ harmonica players of all time;
from obscure but gifted specialist blues/jazz players to those who have made
the most famous use of the instrument such as Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder and John Lennon. Of the latter three
musicians stood out in the British public consciousness…… and were Jewish. They
were Max Geldray, Larry Adler, and Harry Pitch, a Dutchman, an American, and a
Brit.
To avoid them becoming part of the Forgotten History of the Jews, we need to refresh our memories and remind ourselves of the impact that they made in Britain during their careers, so here they are……
