How to Play the Electric Guitar

Electric guitars are like keys to a kingdom of sound possibilities. Whether you're strumming a gentle melody or shredding through a wall of sound, the electric guitar offers a dynamic range that's hard to beat. Let's get into how you can start playing this versatile instrument and dive into some specifics for those interested in metal and its subgenres.

Choosing Your Gear: Guitar and Amplifier

Before you start cranking out riffs, you need the right gear. Picking the right electric guitar and amplifier is like choosing a wand in the wizarding world—it should feel just right for you. Here are a few things to consider:

• Guitar Type: Solid-body guitars like the Fender Stratocaster or Gibson Les Paul are popular due to their versatility. For metal, you might lean towards brands like Ibanez or Jackson, known for their fast necks and aggressive pickups.
• Pickups: Humbuckers are generally preferred in metal for their thicker sound and noise-canceling properties, while single-coils offer a brighter, twangier tone.
• Amplifier: If you're into metal, look for amps with high gain settings. Brands like Marshall, Mesa/Boogie, and Orange are well-regarded. Tube amps often provide a warmer sound, but solid-state amps offer reliability and affordability.

Your choice will depend on the sound you want to achieve and your budget. Try several guitars and amps in a music store to see what feels and sounds best to you.

Getting to Grips with Basic Chords and Scales

Once you've got your gear, it's time to start playing. Mastering a few basic chords and scales is essential. They form the foundation of most songs and will be your first step to understanding music theory.

• Open Chords: These are the building blocks. Start with the E, A, D, G, C, and F chords. They are used in countless songs across genres.
• Power Chords: For rock and metal, power chords are crucial. They are simple to play and create a powerful sound, making them ideal for heavy riffs.
• Scales: The pentatonic scale is an excellent starting point. It's simple and used in many rock solos. As you progress, the minor and major scales will be essential in crafting solos and understanding the fretboard.

Practicing these basics will not only improve your technical skills but also enhance your musical ear, helping you recognize chord progressions and melodies in songs you love.

Developing Picking Techniques: From Alternate to Economy

Picking is where you can really start to make your mark. Different picking techniques can dramatically change your sound and speed.

• Alternate Picking: This involves alternating down and upstrokes. It's fundamental for speed and precision, especially in metal. Start slow, ensuring each note sounds clear, and gradually increase your speed.
• Economy Picking: This technique minimizes hand movement, making it easier to play fast. It's a blend of alternate and sweep picking. Practicing scales with economy picking can enhance your speed.
• Downpicking: Often used in metal for a more aggressive sound. It can be tiring at first, but building endurance will allow you to play those heavy, chugging riffs.

Each technique has its place, and incorporating a variety of them into your practice routine will give you a more versatile playing style. If you're interested in learning more about these techniques, Riffhard offers lessons from some of the world's best metal guitarists, which can help you hone your skills.

Understanding Metal Rhythms: Timing and Precision

Metal is often about precision and complex rhythms. To get that tight sound, you'll need to work on your timing.

• Metronome Practice: Practicing with a metronome is crucial. Start slow to ensure accuracy, then gradually increase the speed. This will help you internalize timing and play consistently.
• Syncopation: Metal is known for its syncopated rhythms. Experiment with off-beats and different time signatures to add complexity to your playing.
• Muted Strumming: Palm muting can add texture and dynamics to your playing. It’s essential for creating those chunky, percussive metal rhythms.

Focusing on rhythm and timing will not only improve your playing but also make you a more reliable musician when playing with others.

Harnessing the Power of Effects and Pedals

Effects pedals can transform your sound, adding layers and textures that are otherwise unachievable. Here are some must-have pedals for electric guitarists:

• Distortion/Overdrive: Essential for metal, these pedals add grit and sustain to your sound.
• Delay: Adds echo and can create a thicker, more atmospheric sound.
• Reverb: Gives your sound space and depth, making it sound larger-than-life.
• Wah-Wah: Great for solos and adding expressive dynamics to your playing.

Experimenting with different combinations of pedals can help you find your unique sound. Just remember, less can be more—too many effects can muddy your tone.

Breaking Down Metal Subgenres: Style and Technique

Metal is a broad genre with many subgenres, each with its own style and techniques. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Thrash Metal: Fast and aggressive. Focus on speed picking and power chords.
• Death Metal: Complex rhythms and technical riffs. Alternate and tremolo picking are important here.
• Black Metal: Often atmospheric with tremolo picking and blast beats. Emphasizes mood and tone.
• Djent: Features polyrhythms and a percussive sound. Requires tight rhythm playing and a good understanding of time signatures.
• Metalcore: Combines elements of extreme metal and hardcore punk. Look into breakdowns and harmonized guitar parts.

Each subgenre offers something different, and understanding these nuances will help you find your niche in the metal world. At Riffhard, we have instructors who specialize in these subgenres, offering lessons that can deepen your understanding and skills.

Improvising and Soloing: Finding Your Voice

Improvisation is where you can really express yourself. It's about finding your voice on the guitar and using it to tell a story.

• Scales and Modes: Beyond the pentatonic, explore modes like the Dorian or Phrygian for unique sounds.
• Phrase Like a Vocalist: Think of your guitar as a singer. Use bends, slides, and vibrato to add emotion to your solos.
• Call and Response: A technique where you play a phrase and then respond to it with another. This helps build a narrative in your solos.

Improvisation is a skill that develops with practice and experimentation. Record yourself to hear what works and what doesn't, and don't be afraid to try new things.

Developing Stage Presence and Performance Skills

Playing live is a different beast compared to practicing at home. Here are some tips to prepare for performing:

• Practice Standing Up: It sounds simple, but many guitarists practice sitting down and find it awkward to transition to standing when performing.
• Engage with the Audience: Make eye contact, move around the stage, and show you’re enjoying yourself. Your energy will be contagious.
• Perform Regularly: The more you perform, the more comfortable you'll become. Consider open mics or small gigs to gain experience.

Stage presence is as much about confidence as it is about skill. Practice these aspects to become a compelling performer.

Recording and Sharing Your Music

Recording your music is a great way to track your progress and share your sound with the world. Here's how to get started:

• Basic Setup: You don't need a lot to start recording. A good computer, audio interface, and DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) like GarageBand or Reaper will suffice.
• Multi-tracking: Record different parts separately and layer them. This allows for greater control over the final mix.
• Use DI: Direct Input allows you to record a clean guitar signal and apply effects and amp simulation later, giving you more flexibility in shaping your sound.

Once your track is ready, consider sharing it on platforms like SoundCloud or Bandcamp. This can also help you get feedback from listeners and other musicians.

Final Thoughts

Playing the electric guitar is a rewarding journey that opens up endless musical possibilities. From choosing your gear to developing your own style, each step is an opportunity to learn and grow. If you're serious about mastering the art of metal guitar, Riffhard offers lessons from some of the world's best metal guitarists to help you refine your skills. Keep practicing and exploring, and enjoy the ride!