How to Play a 12-String Guitar for Beginners

The 12-string guitar, with its lush, shimmering sound, has captivated musicians and listeners alike for decades. It's like a regular six-string guitar's audacious cousin, bringing a fuller and more resonant voice to the table. If you've ever picked up a 12-string and felt a bit overwhelmed by its extra strings, don't worry—you're in the right place. Let's break down how you can start playing this beautiful instrument, even if you're a beginner.

Why Choose a 12-String Guitar?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how to play, let's talk about why you might want to choose a 12-string guitar. Its unique sound comes from the pairing of strings, which are tuned in octaves or unisons. This creates a rich, full-bodied tone that you won't find in a standard six-string guitar. It's like having a built-in chorus effect that can make your music sound more complex and layered.

Here are some reasons you might want to pick up a 12-string:

• Fuller Sound: The additional strings create a fuller, more resonant sound that can make even simple chords sound lush and complex.
• Unique Tone: The tonal qualities of a 12-string guitar are distinct, making it a great choice for those who want to stand out musically.
• Textural Depth: If you're into creating soundscapes or want to add depth to your music, a 12-string can be a fantastic tool.

That said, it can be a bit more challenging to play than a six-string, but the rewards are well worth it. Plus, once you get the hang of it, switching back to a six-string can feel like a breeze!

Getting Comfortable with Your 12-String

First things first, you need to get comfortable holding and handling your 12-string guitar. It's bulkier than a six-string, which means you might need to adjust your playing posture a bit. Here are some tips to help you settle in:

• Sit Correctly: Sit with your back straight and shoulders relaxed. The guitar's body should rest comfortably on your right leg (if you're right-handed).
• Adjust Strap Length: If you prefer standing, adjust your strap so the guitar sits at a comfortable height where your arms can reach the strings easily.
• Find Your Comfort Zone: Spend some time just holding the guitar and strumming open strings. Get used to the width of the neck and the feel of pressing down on double strings.

Once you're comfortable, you'll find that playing becomes more enjoyable, and tackling more complex pieces feels less daunting.

Tuning a 12-String Guitar

Tuning a 12-string guitar can be a bit like solving a puzzle, but once you know the pattern, it becomes second nature. The strings are arranged in pairs, with each pair consisting of two strings tuned either in unison or an octave apart. Typically, the lower four pairs (E, A, D, G) are tuned an octave apart, while the higher two pairs (B, E) are tuned in unison.

Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started:

• Start with the E Pair: Tune the thicker E string to standard E. Then, tune the thinner E string an octave above.
• Move to the A Pair: Repeat the process for the A strings, with the thicker string in standard tuning and the thinner string an octave higher.
• Continue with D and G: Follow the same pattern for the D and G pairs, tuning the thinner string an octave higher than its partner.
• Finish with B and E: The B and E pairs are tuned in unison, so both strings in each pair are tuned to the same note.

Using a tuner can make this process much easier, especially when you're just starting out. With time, you'll develop an ear for the subtle differences between the strings.

Basic Chords and Strumming Patterns

Once your 12-string is in tune, the next step is to start playing some basic chords. Fortunately, the chord shapes are the same as on a six-string guitar. However, you'll need to adjust your finger pressure to ensure that both strings in each pair are pressed down evenly.

Let's look at a few basic chords to get you started:

• G Major: Place your fingers on the third fret of the E string, second fret of the A string, and third fret of the high E string.
• C Major: Fingers go on the third fret of the A string, second fret of the D string, and first fret of the B string.
• D Major: Position your fingers on the second fret of the G string, third fret of the B string, and second fret of the high E string.

When it comes to strumming, start with simple downstrokes to get a feel for the instrument's resonance. As you become more comfortable, experiment with upstrokes and different strumming patterns. Remember, the goal is to get both strings in each pair to ring out cleanly.

Fingerstyle Techniques for 12-String Guitar

One of the joys of the 12-string is how beautifully it responds to fingerstyle playing. The doubled strings can create a harp-like quality that adds a unique texture to your music. If you're new to fingerstyle, here are some tips to get started:

• Anchor Your Hand: Rest the side of your palm lightly on the bridge. This helps stabilize your hand while you pluck the strings.
• Use Your Fingertips: Pluck the strings with your fingertips or nails, rather than the pads of your fingers, for a clearer sound.
• Practice Arpeggios: Start with basic arpeggio patterns, plucking each string in a chord separately. This helps you get used to controlling the sound of paired strings.

Fingerstyle on a 12-string can be a bit challenging at first, but as you practice, you’ll find it offers a rich and rewarding sound.

Maintaining Your 12-String Guitar

Keeping your 12-string in good shape is crucial for getting the best sound out of it. Here are some tips for maintaining your instrument:

• Regular String Changes: Because of the extra tension, 12-string guitars can wear out strings faster than six-strings. Change your strings regularly to keep your tone bright and clear.
• Keep It Clean: Wipe down the strings and body of your guitar after playing to remove oils and dirt.
• Store Properly: Keep your guitar in a case when not in use to protect it from temperature changes and humidity.

Consistent maintenance keeps your guitar sounding great and prolongs its lifespan. Plus, it makes playing much more enjoyable!

Exploring Alternate Tunings

One of the fun aspects of playing a 12-string guitar is experimenting with alternate tunings, which can open up new musical possibilities. While standard tuning is a great starting point, alternate tunings can add a fresh dimension to your playing. A popular choice is "DADGAD," which offers a modal sound that's perfect for folk and world music styles.

Here's how to get started with DADGAD tuning:

• Lower the E Strings: Tune both E strings down to D.
• A Stays the Same: The A strings remain unchanged.
• Lower the G Strings: Tune both G strings down to F#.
• D Strings Stay the Same: The D strings remain unchanged.
• Lower the B Strings: Tune both B strings down to A.
• Lower the High E Strings: Tune both high E strings down to D.

This tuning allows for rich open chords and drones, making it a favorite among many guitarists. It can be a bit of a challenge at first, but the unique sound is well worth the effort.

Building a Practice Routine

Like any new skill, learning the 12-string guitar takes practice. Building a solid routine can help you progress faster and keep you motivated. Here are some tips to create an effective practice schedule:

• Set Clear Goals: Decide what you want to achieve with your practice sessions, whether it's mastering a specific song or improving your fingerstyle technique.
• Mix It Up: Include a variety of exercises in your routine to keep things interesting. Alternate between chord practice, strumming patterns, and fingerstyle exercises.
• Use a Metronome: Practicing with a metronome helps you develop your timing and rhythm, which are essential for playing a 12-string guitar.

Consistency is key, so try to practice a little each day, even if it's just for a few minutes. Over time, you'll see significant improvements in your playing.

Finding Inspiration and Learning Resources

Learning from others can be one of the most effective ways to improve your guitar skills. There are countless resources available, from online tutorials to music books. If you’re particularly interested in modern metal guitar, Riffhard offers lessons from some of the world’s best metal guitarists. While their focus is on six-string guitars, the techniques and lessons can be applied to the 12-string, especially in creating complex, rhythmic patterns.

Additionally, listening to music played on a 12-string guitar can provide inspiration. Artists like Roger McGuinn of The Byrds and Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin have showcased the instrument's potential in various music genres. By exploring different styles and techniques, you can find your unique voice on the 12-string guitar.

Final Thoughts

Playing a 12-string guitar can open up a whole new world of musical possibilities. From its rich, full sound to the textural depth it adds to your music, this instrument offers a unique playing experience. Remember, practice makes progress, and with persistence, you'll find your skills improving over time. And for those interested in modern metal techniques, Riffhard can be a fantastic resource to explore more advanced guitar techniques and broaden your musical horizons.