Riccardo Grosso
Harmonica player, singer, teacher and author. My work starts from blues and roots music but is built around one principle: do not copy — understand the language, then make it your own.
Origins and influences
I was drawn to the harmonica after seeing The Blues Brothers and became fascinated by the instrument’s power, portability and expressive range. My main references include Charlie Musselwhite and Paul Butterfield, together with Sonny Boy Williamson II, Junior Wells, Gary Primich, Mark Ford and Sonny Terry.
I am a Seydel Harmonicas endorser and mainly use 1847 and Session Steel models.
Playing and international work
My professional path has included years of study, workshops, collaborations and live work across Europe and in the United States. I spent an important period in New Orleans, where Johnny Sansone became a mentor and I played around the city in different musical situations.
“Riccardo must be considered definitely a pro! He scared ME!” — Adam Gussow
With the Riccardo Grosso Band I have performed in clubs and festivals across Europe.
Guest appearances
I have appeared on stage as a guest with the Original Blues Brothers Band and Canned Heat. These were personal guest appearances, not band collaborations.
“Tremendous! I hope to be in the same show so I can listen to you live!” — Charlie Musselwhite
Teaching
Alongside live work, I have taught harmonica for more than twenty years. My method is progressive and modular: tone, timing, technique, ear, theory and musical language are connected instead of taught as isolated boxes.