How to Play in 11/8 on the Guitar

So, you've heard the term 11/8 time signature and you're scratching your head, wondering how on earth you're supposed to play that on the guitar. You're not alone. Many guitarists have faced this challenge, especially those diving into the progressive metal scene. The good news? With a bit of guidance and practice, you can wrap your fingers—and your mind—around this quirky time signature and add a whole new dimension to your playing.

What Exactly Is 11/8?

Alright, let's break down what 11/8 means. Time signatures are essentially a way to count musical time, with the top number indicating how many beats are in a measure and the bottom number showing the note value that gets the beat. In 11/8, we're dealing with 11 beats per measure, and each beat is an eighth note. Sounds simple enough, right?

But here's the curveball: 11 is an odd number, which means you can't just split it evenly into groups like you can with 4/4 or 3/4. Instead, you'll often find this time signature divided into smaller groupings, like 3-3-3-2 or 4-4-3. This way, it becomes more digestible and easier to play.

Counting 11/8: A Practical Guide

Before you even pick up your guitar, it's crucial to get the counting down. Try clapping out the rhythm first. Start with a simple grouping, like 3-3-3-2:

• 1-2-3, 1-2-3, 1-2-3, 1-2

Feel that rhythm? It might feel a bit awkward at first, but with repetition, you'll get it under your skin. Once you're comfortable, try tapping your foot along with it. This physical motion can help solidify the rhythm in your mind.

Translating to the Fretboard

Now that you have a basic understanding of 11/8, let's move that rhythm to your guitar. Start with a simple riff that fits the 3-3-3-2 pattern. You don't need anything fancy; a few power chords or single notes will do. The goal is to feel the rhythm on the guitar.

Example Riff

e|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|
B|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|
G|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|
D|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|
A|--5-5-5----------|--7-7-7----------|--8-8-8----------|--5-5------------|
E|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|

Play this riff slowly, focusing on keeping each note tight and in time. Gradually increase your speed as you feel more comfortable. Remember, accuracy is more important than speed at this stage.

Integrating with Drums

Playing in odd time signatures like 11/8 can be a bit disorienting without a solid rhythmic foundation. That's where drums come in. If you're jamming with a drummer, have them lay down a simple beat in 11/8. This can help you lock into the groove and maintain your timing.

If you're practicing alone, consider using a metronome that can accentuate the beat groupings. There are several metronome apps available that allow you to customize your time signature settings. Alternatively, you can program a simple drum loop in a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) to practice to.

Experimenting with Variations

Once you've got the basic pattern down, it's time to stretch your creative muscles. Try experimenting with different note groupings within the 11/8 structure. Instead of 3-3-3-2, how about 4-4-3 or 5-3-3? Each grouping will give your riff a different feel and open up new creative possibilities.

Also, consider incorporating rests and syncopation into your playing. Sometimes, the spaces between notes can be just as impactful as the notes themselves. This is where your creativity can really shine, turning a mechanical exercise into an expressive piece of music.

Syncopation Example

e|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|
B|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|
G|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|
D|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|
A|--5---5----------|--7---7----------|--8---8----------|--5-------------|
E|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|

Notice the rests between the notes? This creates a syncopated feel, adding a new dimension to your riff.

Applying 11/8 in Metal Guitar

11/8 is a favorite among progressive metal guitarists. It adds an element of complexity and unpredictability, keeping the listener on their toes. Bands like Tool and Dream Theater have used odd time signatures to great effect, crafting songs that are both intricate and compelling.

When writing in 11/8 for metal, consider combining it with aggressive techniques like palm muting, alternate picking, and rapid chord changes. These elements can enhance the driving, relentless feel that metal is known for.

Breaking Down a Song

One of the best ways to learn 11/8 is by dissecting songs that use it. Pick a track from a band known for their use of odd time signatures and try to transcribe it. Break it down measure by measure, noting how the time signature is applied throughout the song.

This exercise not only improves your understanding of 11/8 but also enhances your ear training and transcription skills. Plus, it's a great way to draw inspiration for your own compositions.

Practice Tips and Tools

Consistency is key when learning any new skill, and playing in 11/8 is no exception. Set aside regular practice time and be patient with yourself. Remember, it's normal to struggle at first. Here are a few tips to help you along the way:

• Slow it Down: Start at a slow tempo to ensure you're playing accurately. Speed will come with time.
• Use a Metronome: A metronome is invaluable for developing a strong sense of timing.
• Record Yourself: Listening back to your playing can help you identify areas for improvement.
• Stay Relaxed: Tension in your hands or body can hinder your playing. Stay relaxed and focused.

And if you're looking for structured lessons on playing in odd time signatures, Riffhard offers lessons from some of the best metal guitarists around. These instructors can offer insights and tips that you might not find elsewhere.

Learning from the Masters

When you're learning something as nuanced as 11/8, it helps to see how the pros do it. Check out performances or lessons from renowned guitarists in the progressive metal scene. Watch their hands, listen to their timing, and try to incorporate some of their techniques into your own playing.

At Riffhard, we feature lessons from top-tier guitarists like Dean Lamb of Archspire and Javier Reyes of Animals as Leaders. These musicians have mastered complex time signatures and can offer valuable insights into their techniques and thought processes.

Building Up Confidence

Like any new skill, confidence in playing 11/8 comes with practice and persistence. Start with simple exercises and gradually increase the complexity as you become more comfortable. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and remember that every step forward is a step closer to mastering this challenging time signature.

Playing in 11/8 might seem intimidating at first, but with dedication and the right resources, you can make it an integral part of your guitar playing arsenal. And don't forget, Riffhard is here to support you with lessons that focus on these advanced techniques.

Final Thoughts

Playing in 11/8 on the guitar opens up a world of rhythmic possibilities and can greatly enhance your musical expression. With patience, practice, and perhaps a little guidance from expert instructors at Riffhard, you'll find yourself not only understanding but also enjoying the complexity of this unique time signature. So grab your guitar, start counting, and dive into the rhythmic adventure that is 11/8.