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Founded by Mr. Alfred Hering in 1923 in the city of Blumenau, in the south of Brazil, the Hering company has long enjoyed a reputation as a world leader in the manufacture of fine harmonicas.
Many improvements have been incorporated into an already high quality product line, including attractive packaging. The selection of harmonica models has been increased to cover all the market needs - both chromatic and diatonic, and specialty instruments including tremolo and octave tunings, student models and mini-harmonicas. There is also a variety of pitch pipes, and "arround the neck" harp holders in two sizes. Not only are replacement reed plates offered in attractive yet durable packaging, but also reed plates already mounted on new combs are also available. This makes it possible for players to have a brand new harmonica by simply installing their cover plates and mouthpieces (chromatic) on the new combo package, at an attractive cost-saving. This revolutionary advantage is available for all 3 octave and 4 octave chromatics. The 1998 Winter NAMM Exposition in Los Angeles, California, saw the introduction of several new premium harmonicas by Hering, including the Charlie Musselwhite Signature Chromatic Harmonica. Model no. 70148, it is a 3 octave instrument offered in 8 keys, having extra thick, chrome plated reed plates and a clear acrylic body. Mr. Charlie Musselwhite, a very demanding artist of international legendary fame, is extremelly proud of the new instrument bearing his name, manufactured to his specifications, under a quality control regimen without equal. A second premium 3 octave chromatic harmonica, the Velvet Voice with its specially designed cover plates and reed plates that promote a fine velvet sound, was also introduced at the 1998 Winter NAMM Exposition. Designated as model no. 101/48, also available in 8 keys, and is of the same fine quality as the Charlie Musselwhite model, having extra thick, chrome plated reed plates, chromed cover plates and a black ABS plastic body. The three top-of-the-line Hering 10 hole diatonic harmonicas - Hering Blues, Black Blues and Golden Blues - were introduced at NAMM '98. All three models have a thicker reed plate, for the ultimate in tone and projection, and black ABS plastic bodies. The Master Blues is of the same high quality, but slightly less expensive, also having a black ABS plastic body. All Hering harmonicas having ABS plastic or acrylic bodies are assembled with bolts, rather than nails, to facilitate ease of disassembly for cleaning, repair or parts replacement. Hering chromatic and diatonic harmonicas have long had a reputation of quality among harmonica players and professional artists, but have not been available in North America's music stores until now. Players have found it necessary to order them from European and South American sources in the past, but are delighted to know that they are now available through most of the retail stores throughout the United States and Canada.
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