Guitar Lessons Playing Harmonics
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Master Series -> subcategory Music.
Guitar Lessons: Mastering Harmonics
Understanding Harmonics
A harmonic is a special tone on the guitar produced by lightly touching the string above a fret on an open, vibrating string. There are two main types: Natural Harmonics and Artificial Harmonics, commonly known as Pinch Harmonics.
Natural Harmonics
To produce Natural Harmonics, gently touch your index finger over the 5th, 7th, or 12th fret without pressing down hard. By doing this, you allow the string to vibrate freely, creating a clear harmonic sound. Here’s a simple exercise to try on the A string:
```
E|------------|
B|------------|
G|------------|
D|------------|
A|----12------|
E|------------|
```
The key to playing harmonics is timing. The duration your finger remains on the string can result in a harmonic, a muted sound, or a regular note. Experiment with harmonics across all six strings at the 5th, 7th, and 12th frets. Place your finger lightly on all strings and pick each one from the low E to the high E, lifting your finger right after each pick. It requires practice, but the result is a mesmerizing tone.
```
E|---------5-----|--------7-----|----------12---|
B|--------5------|-------7------|--------12-----|
G|-------5-------|------7-------|-------12------|
D|------5--------|-----7--------|------12-------|
A|-----5---------|----7---------|-----12--------|
E|----5----------|---7----------|----12---------|
```
Pinch Harmonics
Pinch Harmonics involve mastering your picking technique. Start by holding your pick tightly, allowing only a small amount to protrude between your thumb and index finger. As you pluck the string, the trick is to let the pick strike first, followed by a slight twist of your thumb to touch the string.
Why incorporate Pinch Harmonics? They add an exciting dimension to your solos. Combine them with string bends and vibrato for dramatic squeals. Pinch Harmonics are impressive, even when played accidentally. Dedicate a portion of your practice to experimenting with licks and adding Pinch Harmonics. The new sounds you create will make you want to play even more!
By practicing these techniques, you'll soon unlock a range of fascinating tones on your guitar, enhancing your overall playing experience.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Guitar Lessons Playing Harmonics.
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