How to Play 0 on Guitar Tabs

Ever looked at a guitar tab and wondered what that “0” means? You’re not alone. The “0” in guitar tabs represents an open string, a fundamental part of playing but often overlooked. Let’s break it down, understand its significance, and see how it can add flavor to your playing style, especially if you’re interested in metal and its many subgenres.

What Exactly is an Open String?

When you see a “0” on a guitar tab, it means you play the string open, without pressing down any frets. Simple, right? Open strings are the notes you get when you strum without touching the fretboard. They are E, A, D, G, B, and E from the thickest to the thinnest string. Playing open strings is like the bread and butter of guitar playing—a basic, yet essential element that forms the foundation of countless riffs and melodies.

Why Open Strings Matter

Open strings are more than just starting points; they add a unique resonance and depth to your sound. Ever notice how a riff can sound fuller or more vibrant? That’s often due to the open strings ringing out. They let you create a wall of sound, crucial for genres like metal, where every note counts.

Open strings allow for quick transitions between notes, making your riffs flow smoothly. They can be a secret weapon in your guitar-playing arsenal, especially when you aim to create complex, fast-paced riffs typical of thrash or djent. Open strings let you keep the pace without compromising on clarity.

How to Incorporate Open Strings into Riffs

Open strings can transform a simple riff into something extraordinary. Here’s a basic exercise to get you started:

• Play an open E string.
• Follow with the second fret on the A string.
• Return to the open E string.
• Move to the third fret on the A string.

Notice how the open E provides a solid foundation, creating a rhythmic pulse? This technique is often used in metal to build tension and energy.

The Role of Open Strings in Metal

In metal, open strings are often used in breakdowns and intros. Think of Metallica’s “Enter Sandman” or Slayer’s “Raining Blood.” These iconic riffs leverage open strings to create a driving force that gets heads banging. Open strings give you the ability to create a heavy, aggressive sound without losing clarity.

When you use open strings in metal, you’re not just playing notes; you’re creating an atmosphere. The resonance of an open string can add a haunting feel to a black metal riff or a relentless drive to a thrash metal composition.

Techniques to Enhance Open String Playing

Using techniques like palm muting can add a whole new dimension to your open string playing. By lightly resting your palm on the strings near the bridge, you can dampen the sound, adding a percussive edge. This method is commonly used in genres like metalcore and djent to create tight, chugging rhythms.

Another technique is the hammer-on and pull-off. This allows you to add speed and fluidity to your playing. For instance, you can hammer-on to the second fret after playing an open string, then pull-off back to the open string. This creates a quick succession of notes, perfect for fast-paced metal solos.

Practicing with Open Strings

To get the most out of open strings, practice is key. Here’s a simple routine to incorporate into your practice schedule:

• Warm up with open string scales, focusing on clarity and consistency.
• Practice alternate picking on open strings to build speed and accuracy.
• Incorporate open strings into your riffs and solos, experimenting with different genres and styles.
• Use a metronome to ensure you’re keeping time, especially when playing fast passages.

For more structured practice, you might consider checking out Riffhard, where we offer lessons that focus on rhythm guitar techniques, ideal for mastering open string usage in metal.

Open Strings and Tuning

Open strings take on different roles depending on your tuning. In standard tuning, they provide a familiar sound, but in drop D or C, they can create a heavier, darker tone. Experimenting with different tunings can open up new possibilities. For example, drop D tuning makes it easier to play power chords, a staple in many metal genres.

When you change tunings, pay attention to how the open strings resonate differently. This can inspire new riffs and ideas that wouldn’t be possible in standard tuning.

Using Riffhard to Enhance Your Skills

At Riffhard, we’ve got lessons that dive deep into the art of using open strings effectively. Our instructors, some of the best in the modern metal scene, share their insights on creating riffs that stand out. From breakdowns to solos, open strings are a pivotal part of the metal guitar toolkit. Our platform can help you learn how to use them to their fullest potential, with lessons tailored to different skill levels and styles.

Building Confidence with Open Strings

New to guitar or metal? Incorporating open strings into your playing can boost your confidence. Start simple, and gradually work your way up to more complex riffs. As you practice, you’ll notice improvements in your timing, rhythm, and overall sound. Playing with confidence is crucial in metal, where precision and energy are everything.

Don’t be afraid to experiment. Try different picking techniques, mix open strings with fretted notes, and see what works best for you. Remember, playing guitar is as much about personal expression as it is about technique.

Final Thoughts

The humble “0” on a guitar tab is more powerful than it first appears. By mastering open strings, you can add depth and complexity to your playing, making your riffs and solos more compelling. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned guitarist, incorporating open strings into your practice can elevate your sound. For those looking to deepen their skills, Riffhard offers a wealth of lessons from top metal guitarists, helping you to refine your technique and explore new musical territories.