Is it legal to drive a car and play the harmonica at the same time? I would use a hands-free device to hold the harmonica (like the holders guitar players use).
Sure. As long as you don’t try that vibrato thing using both hands.
Legal I dont know about, but I do play the tinwhistle while driving. (when stopped at stoplights, in <2mph GODDAMN Chicago traffic, etc.)
Of course I do so at great personal risk to myself and cannot in good conscience recommend this:)
The trouble is that even with those hands-free devices, you have to crane your neck forward considerably, you would also be somewhat motivated to keep your head in a forward-facing position, not to mention the possibility of distraction. I don’t think the police here in the UK would let you get away with it; it could probably be described as ‘driving without due care and attention’ for the reasons stated above. I couldn’t say how the police elsewhere might treat it.
I remember Jonathan Edwards saying during a concert that he learned to play harmonica by using one of those hands-free units while driving cross country.
As for legality, don’t know. Check with your local DMV, as it’s probably different in the various states.
Most jurisdictions have laws against distracted driving; this would probably qualify.
–Cliffy