Mike Stevens (bluegrass harmonica)

Mike Stevens is a Canadian harmonica player renowned for his innovative and virtuosic approach to bluegrass music. While the harmonica is not a traditional bluegrass instrument, Stevens has successfully integrated it into the genre, becoming a leading figure and advocate for its inclusion.

Stevens' style is characterized by its speed, precision, and incorporation of techniques typically associated with other instruments like the banjo and fiddle. He frequently employs overblowing and bending to create complex melodies and harmonies, expanding the instrument's sonic capabilities within the bluegrass framework.

He has released numerous albums as a solo artist and in collaboration with other musicians, showcasing his harmonica skills in a variety of bluegrass settings. His work has been widely recognized, earning him critical acclaim and a dedicated following.

Beyond his performance career, Stevens is also an educator, conducting workshops and masterclasses to teach harmonica players of all levels. He is committed to promoting the harmonica and encouraging its use in diverse musical genres. He is often credited with inspiring a new generation of harmonica players to explore bluegrass and other non-traditional styles.