How to Tap on a Guitar

Tapping on the guitar is like adding a secret weapon to your musical arsenal. It's a technique that can transform your playing from ordinary to extraordinary, especially when you're diving into the realms of metal, rock, and beyond. If you've ever admired the fluid, lightning-fast runs of guitar legends like Eddie Van Halen or Joe Satriani, you're already familiar with the magic tapping can bring to the table. Let's break down what tapping is all about and how you can incorporate this impressive technique into your own playing.

What Exactly is Tapping?

At its core, tapping is a technique where you use fingers of both hands to fret notes on the guitar's fretboard, allowing you to execute fast and intricate passages effortlessly. Normally, your fretting hand handles the notes while your picking hand, well, picks. Tapping flips the script, letting your picking hand join the fretting party. This opens up a world of possibilities, from rapid-fire note sequences to intricate melodies that would be tough to nail otherwise.

One of the cool things about tapping is how it can make a guitar sing in a way that's almost piano-like. You're not limited by the speed of your picking hand because you're directly fretting the notes. This can lead to some jaw-dropping moments during solos and riffs, particularly in genres like progressive metal and djent, where complex and technical playing is the name of the game.

Getting Started with Tapping

To get started with tapping, you'll need to familiarize yourself with a few basic principles. First, you'll want to practice proper finger placement. The idea is to use the tip of your tapping finger (usually your index or middle finger of your picking hand) to press down on the string. You want to strike the string with enough force to produce a clear, ringing note but not so much that you lose control.

Here are some steps to help you start tapping:

• Choose a Simple Pattern: Begin with a simple pattern, such as tapping a note on the 12th fret with your picking hand while holding a note on the 5th fret with your fretting hand.
• Practice the Movement: Focus on the tapping motion itself. Use your tapping finger to tap the note and then quickly pull it off to sound the note you're holding with your fretting hand.
• Start Slow: Take your time to get a clean sound. Speed will come with practice, so prioritize accuracy and clarity.
• Use a Metronome: Practicing with a metronome can help you stay in time and gradually increase your speed.

Adding Flair with Two-Handed Tapping

Once you have the basic tapping technique down, it's time to spice things up with two-handed tapping. This involves using several fingers from both hands to tap multiple notes. It's a technique that can make your solos sound more intricate and full.

Here's a classic example of a two-handed tapping pattern you can try:

• Fretting Hand: Hold down a note on the 5th fret (e.g., on the B string).
• Tapping Hand: Use your index finger to tap the 12th fret on the same string.
• Additional Taps: With practice, add your ring finger to tap the 15th fret after the initial tap.

This pattern creates a cascading effect that's not only fun to play but also sounds impressive. As you get comfortable, you can experiment with different fret combinations and rhythms to create your own tapping sequences.

Challenges and Solutions

Tapping, like any technique, comes with its own set of challenges. One common hurdle is maintaining clean transitions between tapped notes. It's essential to mute any unwanted string noise, which can easily occur when tapping.

Here are some tips to tackle these challenges:

• String Muting: Use your palm or unused fingers to gently mute the strings you're not playing. This will help prevent any accidental ringing.
• Focus on Dynamics: Experiment with the pressure you apply when tapping. Sometimes a lighter touch can produce a cleaner sound.
• Practice with Intention: Break down tapping patterns into smaller sections and focus on perfecting each one before piecing them together.

Interestingly enough, many guitarists find that tapping is easier to master with a bit of patience and practice. The key is to stay persistent and tackle one challenge at a time.

Incorporating Tapping into Your Solos

Once you've got the hang of tapping, the next step is to incorporate it into your solos. Tapping can add a unique flavor to your playing, making your solos stand out from the crowd. Start by adding tapping sections to parts of your solos where you want to create a sense of speed and excitement.

Consider these ideas for integrating tapping into your solos:

• Add Tapping to Runs: Replace some of your picked notes with tapped notes to create a seamless transition between fast and slow sections.
• Use Tapping for Climaxes: Introduce tapping during the peak of your solo to add intensity and drama.
• Experiment with Rhythms: Try tapping in different rhythmic patterns to create interesting and unexpected moments.

Remember, tapping is just one tool in your soloing toolkit. The real magic happens when you combine it with other techniques, such as bends, slides, and vibrato, to create a dynamic and expressive solo.

Famous Tapping Solos to Inspire You

To truly grasp the potential of tapping, it's helpful to listen to some iconic solos that showcase this technique at its best. Here are a few examples that might inspire you:

• "Eruption" by Van Halen: Perhaps one of the most famous guitar solos ever, "Eruption" is a masterclass in tapping. Eddie Van Halen's fluid, explosive tapping is a benchmark for many guitarists.
• "For the Love of God" by Steve Vai: This track features a beautiful blend of melody and tapping, demonstrating how tapping can be used for more than just speed.
• "Cliffs of Dover" by Eric Johnson: A showcase of technique and melody, this song includes tasteful tapping sections that add to its lyrical quality.

Listening to these solos not only offers inspiration but also provides valuable insights into how tapping can be effectively used in different musical contexts.

Exploring Tapping in Metal and Beyond

Tapping has found a home in many music genres, but it truly shines in metal and its subgenres. Bands like Animals as Leaders and Periphery have taken tapping to new heights, incorporating it into their complex and technical music.

In metal, tapping can be used to create intricate riffs, soaring solos, and even ambient textures. It's a versatile technique that allows for a wide range of expression. If you're interested in exploring how some of the best modern metal guitarists use tapping, Riffhard offers lessons from artists like Javier Reyes of Animals as Leaders, who can guide you through the intricacies of this style.

But tapping isn't limited to metal. It can be found in jazz, rock, and even classical guitar music. The key is to explore different styles and find ways to incorporate tapping into your own musical voice.

Riffhard: A Resource for Tapping and More

Learning to tap effectively can be challenging, especially when you're trying to figure it out on your own. That's where resources like Riffhard come in handy. We offer a comprehensive library of lessons specifically focused on modern metal guitar, taught by some of the best in the business.

Our platform provides insights into tapping techniques, rhythm guitar, and everything in between. With over 150 video lessons, downloadable tabs, and even a custom metronome designed for guitar practice, we aim to make your learning experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Stepping Up Your Tapping Game

As you become more comfortable with tapping, consider challenging yourself with more advanced techniques. Experiment with using different fingers for tapping, incorporating slides, or combining tapping with other techniques like legato.

Here are a few ways to step up your tapping game:

• Try Tapping Arpeggios: Use tapping to play fast arpeggio sequences across multiple strings.
• Experiment with Tapping Harmonies: Tap two notes simultaneously to create harmonized melodies.
• Combine Tapping with Whammy Bar: Add a whammy bar dive or pull to your tapped notes for a dramatic effect.

Remember, the goal is to expand your musical vocabulary and find new ways to express yourself through the guitar. Don't be afraid to push your limits and explore uncharted territory.

Final Thoughts

Tapping is a versatile and exciting technique that can elevate your guitar playing to new heights. Whether you're a metal guitarist or exploring other genres, incorporating tapping into your repertoire can open up new musical possibilities. At Riffhard, we offer a wealth of resources and lessons to help you develop your tapping skills and more. Dive in, experiment, and most importantly, have fun with it!