How to Play Octaves on the Guitar

Octave playing on the guitar is a technique that can add depth and texture to your music, making riffs and solos stand out with a fuller sound. Whether you're aiming for a jazzy vibe or the intense drive of metal, octaves can be your secret weapon. Let's break down how to play octaves on the guitar, explore some practical tips, and see how they can enhance your playing style, especially if you're into genres like metalcore or progressive metal.

Understanding Octaves

First things first, what exactly is an octave? In the simplest terms, an octave is the interval between one musical pitch and another with double its frequency. When you play an octave, you're playing the same note, just at a higher or lower pitch. Imagine singing "Do Re Mi" and then jumping to the next "Do" – that's an octave leap.

On the guitar, octaves are typically played with two notes at a time. The most common way to play them involves using the E and D strings or the A and G strings. You might ask, why would you want to play the same note twice? Well, it creates a rich, full sound that can cut through the mix, especially in a band setting.

Here's a quick way to find octaves on the guitar:

• Place your index finger on any fret of the low E string.
• Place your pinky finger two frets higher on the D string (for example, if your index is on the 5th fret, your pinky will be on the 7th fret of the D string).
• Both of these notes are the same note name but in different octaves.

Classic Octave Shapes

When playing octaves on the guitar, you’ll typically use one of two common shapes. These shapes are movable, meaning you can shift them up and down the neck to play different notes.

Shape One: E and D Strings

This shape is handy because it covers a lot of ground with minimal finger movement. Here’s how you set it up:

• Place your index finger on the low E string at any fret.
• Your ring finger or pinky will go two frets up on the D string.
• Skip the A string entirely; it should not ring out.

For example, if you place your index on the 5th fret of the E string and your ring finger on the 7th fret of the D string, you’re playing the note A on both strings, but in different octaves.

Shape Two: A and G Strings

This is another versatile shape, great for when your riffs or solos center around the middle of the neck:

• Place your index finger on any fret of the A string.
• Your ring finger or pinky will go two frets up on the G string.
• Again, skip the D string; it should stay muted.

Octaves are great for building tension, especially in metal genres, where you might want to create a big, dramatic sound. By shifting these shapes up and down the neck, you can create a dynamic range in your music that resonates with power and clarity.

Muting – The Unsung Hero

Playing octaves cleanly involves a bit of finesse, particularly when it comes to muting strings. You'll want to ensure that only the two notes you're targeting are ringing out. So, how do you keep those pesky in-between strings quiet?

• Use your index finger to lightly touch the string between the two you're playing. This helps mute it.
• Your palm can also lightly rest on other strings to prevent unwanted noise.

Muting is especially crucial if you’re playing in a high-gain setting, like metal. Without muting, you’ll end up with a muddy sound. Think of it as your silent partner in crime, ensuring your octaves ring out loud and clear.

Interestingly enough, muting is something we emphasize a lot at Riffhard, where our lessons often tackle the challenges of muting in high-gain environments. Instructors like Zakk Wylde and Dean Lamb share insights on how to keep your playing tight and precise.

Adding Dynamics with Octaves

Octaves aren’t just about playing two notes; they’re about adding dynamics and emotion to your music. How you play them can drastically change the feel of your piece. Here are a few ways to incorporate dynamics:

• Accents: Emphasize certain octaves by picking them harder. This can add a rhythmic punch.
• Slides: Slide into your octave to create a fluid, sweeping sound.
• Staccato: Play short, choppy octaves for a percussive effect.

These techniques can transform a simple riff into something more engaging and expressive. It’s like adding spice to your favorite dish – a little goes a long way in enhancing the overall flavor.

Octaves in Metal

In metal, octaves are often used to create powerful riffs or to add melodic layers. Metallica, for instance, uses them extensively to build tension and drama. If you’re writing a riff, try incorporating octaves to see how they can change the dynamic.

For example, in thrash metal, you might want a riff that’s aggressive and driving. Octaves can help by providing a harmonic base that sounds tight and cohesive. In djent, octaves can add a polyrhythmic complexity that challenges listeners and keeps the energy high.

At Riffhard, we offer lessons that dive deep into rhythm guitar techniques, including how to effectively use octaves in metal. With instructors like Jason Richardson and Dave Davidson, you learn from the best in the genre, ensuring your skills are always a step ahead.

Practice Routines

Like any guitar technique, mastering octaves takes practice. Here’s a simple routine to get you started:

• Warm-up: Start with simple exercises, playing octaves slowly up and down the neck.
• Speed Building: Use a metronome to gradually increase your speed while maintaining clarity.
• Incorporate Dynamics: Practice adding accents, staccato, and slides to your octaves.

Consider integrating these exercises into your daily practice. Consistent practice not only builds muscle memory but also helps you develop a feel for when and how to use octaves effectively in your playing.

Also, remember that at Riffhard, our custom metronome is designed specifically for guitar practice, helping you keep your timing sharp while you hone your octave skills.

Common Mistakes

Even seasoned guitarists can stumble over octaves if they're not careful. Here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Improper Muting: Ensure you're muting all the strings you’re not playing to avoid unwanted noise.
• Sloppy Finger Placement: Make sure your fingers are placed accurately on the frets to avoid buzzing.
• Overuse: While octaves are great, overusing them can make your music sound monotonous. Use them judiciously.

Keep an ear out for these mistakes during practice sessions. Record yourself playing and listen back to identify areas for improvement. This self-feedback is invaluable for growth.

Octave Variations

Once you’re comfortable with basic octave shapes, you might want to explore some variations. Here are a couple of ideas:

• Extended Octaves: Instead of just two notes, try adding a third note an octave higher for a fuller sound.
• Harmonic Octaves: Use harmonics to create ethereal-sounding octaves, especially useful in intros or quiet sections.

These variations can add a new dimension to your music, allowing you to experiment and find your unique sound. It’s all about pushing the boundaries and seeing where your creativity takes you.

Practical Applications

Let’s talk about where you can use octaves in your music. Here are some practical applications:

• Riffs: Octaves can make your riffs sound bigger and more powerful.
• Solos: Use octaves to add a melodic layer or to create tension before a big release.
• Choruses: Enhance your choruses with octaves to make them stand out.

Try integrating octaves into your songwriting process. They can act as a bridge between different sections or as a tool to emphasize key moments in your music, making your compositions more impactful.

Final Thoughts

Playing octaves on the guitar can transform your sound, adding both depth and drama. By incorporating octaves into your practice routine, you'll find new ways to express yourself musically. At Riffhard, we offer lessons from top metal guitarists who can guide you in mastering this technique and many others, enhancing your rhythm and lead guitar skills. Whether you're aiming to tighten up your rhythm or explore new melodic ideas, octaves are a powerful tool in your guitar arsenal.