How to Hit a Harmonic on the Guitar

Hitting harmonics on the guitar can feel like discovering a secret weapon in your musical arsenal. They add a unique flair, turning a solid riff into something extraordinary. Today, we’ll explore how to hit those harmonics with precision and flair, diving into natural, artificial, and pinch harmonics, among others. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or just starting, you’ll find tips and tricks to enhance your harmonic game.

Understanding and Creating Natural Harmonics

Natural harmonics are the easiest to get started with. They occur when you lightly touch a string at specific points, creating a bell-like tone. These points are usually at the 5th, 7th, or 12th frets. The physics behind it is all about dividing the string into equal parts, producing overtones that are rich and resonant.

To hit a natural harmonic, follow these steps:

• Place your fretting hand finger lightly on the string, directly above the fret wire. Don’t press down as you would when fretting a note.
• Pluck the string with your picking hand. You should hear a clear, ringing tone.
• Lift your finger off the string immediately after plucking to let the harmonic ring out.

Practice on the 12th fret first, as it’s the most forgiving position. Once you’re comfortable, try the 7th and 5th frets. Each position will give you a different harmonic note, adding variety to your playing.

I remember the first time I nailed a natural harmonic—it felt like magic. The sound was so distinct, and it opened up new creative avenues in my playing. And if you’re looking to expand your harmonic skills, Riffhard has lessons from some of the top metal guitarists that delve into these techniques in detail.

Mastering Artificial Harmonics

Artificial harmonics can be a bit trickier, but they’re incredibly rewarding. Unlike natural harmonics, these are created by fretting a note and then producing a harmonic above it. You’re essentially creating a new, higher-pitched note with a harmonic tone.

Here’s how to tackle artificial harmonics:

• Fret a note as you normally would.
• Use the edge of your thumb on your picking hand to lightly touch the string at a point halfway between the fret and the bridge.
• Pick the string using your pick, making sure to touch the string with your thumb immediately after the pick.

It might feel awkward at first, but with practice, you’ll get the hang of it. The key is to find that sweet spot where the harmonic rings out clearly. It’s all about precision, so take your time to experiment with different positions.

Interestingly enough, artificial harmonics can add a lot of texture to solos and riffs, especially in genres like metal and progressive rock. If you’re serious about mastering them, Riffhard offers some fantastic lessons that break down this technique into digestible parts.

The Art of Pinch Harmonics

Pinch harmonics are a favorite in metal because of their aggressive, squealing sound. They involve a specific picking technique where your thumb and pick work together to create the harmonic.

To achieve a pinch harmonic, follow these steps:

• Hold your pick with a small amount of the tip exposed.
• Pick the string so that your thumb slightly grazes the string immediately after the pick.
• Experiment with your picking hand’s position on the string to find the “sweet spot” for the harmonic to sound clearly.

Each string and fret combination will have a different sweet spot, so don’t hesitate to experiment. Pinch harmonics can be a bit unpredictable at first, but once you get the hang of it, they become a powerful tool in your guitar playing arsenal.

I remember seeing Zakk Wylde from Black Label Society pull off pinch harmonics effortlessly, and it inspired me to try them myself. The lessons at Riffhard cover these techniques extensively, with insights from some of the best in the business.

Incorporating Harmonics into Riffs and Solos

Harmonics can add a new dimension to both riffs and solos, providing a sonic contrast that keeps things interesting. When used tastefully, they can enhance the emotional impact of your music.

Here are some tips for integrating harmonics into your playing:

• Use harmonics at the end of a riff to add a surprising twist.
• Incorporate them into solos for dynamic shifts and emotional peaks.
• Experiment with different placements and combinations for unique textures.

Metalcore and progressive metal often make excellent use of harmonics to create intricate soundscapes. By weaving them into your playing, you can achieve a more expressive and varied sound.

When I started incorporating harmonics into my solos, it felt like adding a splash of color to a black-and-white sketch. It’s amazing how a simple technique can elevate your playing to new heights.

Advanced Harmonic Techniques

Once you’ve got the basics down, you might want to explore some advanced harmonic techniques. These can include tapped harmonics, where you tap a fret to create a harmonic, or using a whammy bar to manipulate harmonic pitches.

Tapped harmonics involve tapping the string at the harmonic node with your picking hand, much like a natural harmonic. This can be combined with legato techniques for a fluid sound.

The whammy bar can add a distinctive flavor to harmonics, allowing you to bend and dive the pitch for dramatic effects. It’s a staple in styles like metal and shred guitar, where theatrics are part of the appeal.

As you venture into these advanced techniques, consider checking out the resources available at Riffhard. They offer lessons that can help you refine these skills with input from some of the most talented metal guitarists around.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Like any skill, hitting harmonics comes with its set of challenges. Let’s talk about some common mistakes and how to sidestep them.

• Pressing too hard: Remember, harmonics require a light touch. Pressing too hard will stop the harmonic from ringing.
• Missing the sweet spot: Especially with pinch harmonics, finding the exact spot on the string is crucial. Take time to experiment with different positions.
• Overusing harmonics: While they’re exciting, using them too much can lose their impact. Use them sparingly for the best effect.

Practicing consistently and paying attention to these details will help you overcome these challenges. And if you’re looking for additional guidance, the lessons at Riffhard provide valuable insights into avoiding these pitfalls.

Developing Your Harmonic Style

As you get comfortable with harmonics, you’ll start to develop your own style. Maybe you prefer the subtlety of natural harmonics or the aggressive flair of pinch harmonics. Whatever your preference, harmonics offer a great way to express your musical personality.

Experiment with different harmonic types in various musical contexts. Try incorporating them into your songwriting or improvisation sessions. This experimentation will help you discover what works best for you and how you can use harmonics to enhance your unique sound.

While it’s hard to say for sure what your signature style will be, embracing these techniques with an open mind can lead to exciting musical discoveries.

Resources and Tools for Learning Harmonics

There are plenty of resources available to help you master harmonics. Guitar tabs, online tutorials, and instructional videos are all valuable tools. But perhaps the most beneficial resource is access to expert instructors.

At Riffhard, we offer lessons from some of the best metal guitarists in the world, providing you with the knowledge and skills to enhance your harmonic technique. With over 150 video lessons, downloadable tabs, and an interactive player, you’ll find everything you need to take your harmonics to the next level.

Remember, learning is a journey, and every small step counts. Keep practicing, stay curious, and most importantly, enjoy the process.

Final Thoughts

Hitting harmonics on the guitar adds a unique layer to your playing, whether you’re into metal, rock, or any other genre. With practice and the right resources, you can master this skill and incorporate it into your musical repertoire. At Riffhard, we’re passionate about helping you develop these techniques with lessons from some of the world’s top metal guitarists. Happy playing!