How to Do Guitar Runs

Guitar runs are the secret sauce that spices up your solos and riffs, especially in the high-energy world of metal. They’re those rapid-fire sequences of notes that can send shivers down your spine or make the hairs on your arms stand up. But how does one master these elusive beasts? Let’s break down the essentials and get you shredding like a pro.

What Exactly Are Guitar Runs?

In simple terms, a guitar run is a fast series of notes played in succession. Think of it as a mini-solo within a solo, often used to transition between different sections of a song or to ramp up the intensity. These runs can be ascending or descending, and they’re a staple in genres like metal, where speed is often of the essence.

Picture Kirk Hammett ripping through a solo in a Metallica song or Synyster Gates from Avenged Sevenfold tearing it up with lightning-fast precision. Those are guitar runs in action. They require dexterity, timing, and a lot of practice. But when executed well, they can elevate your playing to new heights.

Nailing Your Timing

Timing is everything when it comes to guitar runs. If you’re not precise, the run can sound sloppy and ruin the overall feel of the piece. Here’s how you can tighten up your timing:

• Use a Metronome: This might sound basic, but a metronome is your best friend when it comes to improving timing. Start slow to ensure each note is clean and in time. Gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable.
• Record Yourself: Sometimes you might think you’re in time, but the playback could tell a different story. Recording yourself allows you to listen back and spot any timing issues.
• Consistent Practice: Regular practice is key. Dedicate a portion of your practice sessions specifically to runs. Over time, your timing will improve naturally.

Interestingly enough, many of the top metal guitarists use tools like Riffhard to fine-tune their timing. With Riffhard, you can practice alongside some of the best in the business, like Dean Lamb from Archspire, ensuring that your timing is as tight as your idols.

Building Speed Without Sacrificing Clarity

Speed is undeniably appealing in guitar playing, but speed without clarity is like a sports car without brakes—exciting but ultimately dangerous. Here’s how to build speed while keeping your playing clean:

• Start Slow: It might feel counterintuitive, but starting slow helps you focus on clean execution. Speed will naturally follow as your fingers become more comfortable with the movements.
• Use Economy of Motion: Minimize unnecessary movements. Keep your fingers close to the fretboard and your picking hand relaxed. This reduces fatigue and increases speed.
• Alternate Picking: This technique involves alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes, allowing for faster and more efficient picking.

Many Riffhard lessons focus on building speed with clarity, using techniques that have been proven by the pros. Check out lessons by instructors like Jason Richardson, who are known for their incredible speed and precision.

Developing Finger Independence

Finger independence is crucial for executing runs smoothly. If your fingers are tripping over each other, it’s time to work on exercises that enhance dexterity. Here’s a few ideas:

• Spider Exercises: These involve playing scales with different finger patterns to improve coordination. They’re great for building strength and independence.
• String Skipping: Practicing runs that involve skipping strings can help each finger learn to operate independently.
• Legato Exercises: Focus on hammer-ons and pull-offs, which can help develop finger strength and independence without relying on the picking hand.

Finger independence takes time to develop, but the payoff is immense. With time, you’ll notice that runs become smoother and more effortless.

Playing with Dynamics

While speed and precision are important, dynamics give your runs character. Playing everything at the same volume and intensity can make your runs sound monotonous. Here’s how to add variation:

• Accent Notes: Emphasize certain notes to create a dynamic flow. This can be achieved by picking harder or softer.
• Use Vibrato: Adding vibrato to the end of a run can give it a more expressive feel.
• Experiment with Volume: Try starting a run quietly and gradually increasing the volume, or vice versa, to add interest.

Dynamics are about expression. They allow your personality to shine through in your playing, turning a simple run into a memorable moment.

Incorporating Different Scales

Understanding scales is fundamental to creating interesting runs. While the pentatonic scale is a staple, exploring other scales can add unique flavors to your playing:

• Minor and Major Scales: These are the building blocks of most music and offer a wide range of possibilities.
• Harmonic Minor Scale: This scale offers a distinct, exotic sound often used in metal.
• Chromatic Scale: Incorporating chromatic runs can add tension and complexity to your solos.

Try mixing different scales within a run to create unexpected and exciting sounds. At Riffhard, we offer lessons from guitarists like Dave Davidson who are known for their innovative use of scales in metal.

Using the Right Gear

Your gear can significantly affect how your runs sound. Here are a few tips to make sure you’re set up for success:

• Guitar Setup: Ensure your guitar is properly set up with the right string gauge and action for fast playing.
• Pick Selection: A heavier pick can provide more control, especially for fast picking.
• Amplifier Settings: Dial in your amp settings to ensure clarity and sustain. You want your runs to be heard clearly, not lost in distortion.

Experiment with your gear to find what works best for you. Small adjustments can make a big difference in your playing experience.

Learning from the Best

One of the most effective ways to improve is to learn from those who have mastered the art of guitar runs. Whether it’s watching live performances, studying solos, or attending workshops, exposure to great playing can inspire and inform your own style.

At Riffhard, we provide access to lessons from top metal guitarists like Zakk Wylde and Javier Reyes, offering insights into their techniques and approaches to guitar runs. By learning from the best, you can incorporate their strategies into your own playing.

Staying Patient and Having Fun

Finally, remember that mastering guitar runs takes time and patience. Celebrate small victories and enjoy the journey. It’s easy to get frustrated when things don’t click immediately, but persistence is key.

Make practice enjoyable by setting small, achievable goals. Whether it’s nailing a specific run or improving your timing, each step forward is progress. Keep experimenting, stay curious, and most importantly, have fun with your playing.

Final Thoughts

Guitar runs are a thrilling aspect of playing that can elevate your music and captivate your audience. With practice, timing, and a bit of creativity, you can incorporate these techniques into your repertoire. If you're looking for expert guidance, Riffhard offers lessons from top metal guitarists to help you refine your skills and master the art of guitar runs. Keep practicing, stay inspired, and enjoy the ride!