What are some lesser-known guitar techniques?

Hey there! Thanks for reaching out to Guitars Republic with your question. I'm Tommy Pick, and I'm here to help you explore some lesser-known guitar techniques that can take your playing to the next level. So, let's dive right in!

1. Harmonics: Harmonics are beautiful, bell-like tones that can add a touch of magic to your playing. By lightly touching the string at specific points while picking, you can produce harmonics at various intervals. Experiment with natural harmonics (over the 12th, 7th, and 5th frets) and artificial harmonics (using your picking hand and fretting hand simultaneously) to create ethereal sounds.

2. Tapped Harmonics: This technique combines tapping and harmonics to create a unique sound. After tapping a note with your picking hand, lightly touch the string above the fret wire to produce harmonics. This technique is commonly used in rock and metal genres to create fast, cascading melodies.

3. Chicken Pickin': Chicken pickin' is a country-style technique that emulates the sound of a chicken pecking at the strings. It involves using a combination of pick and fingers to create a staccato effect. By muting the strings with your palm and selectively plucking with your fingers, you can achieve that distinctive twangy sound.

4. Sweep Picking: Sweep picking is a technique that allows you to play arpeggios with lightning-fast speed. It involves using a sweeping motion with your pick across multiple strings while fretting the notes in a specific pattern. Practice this technique slowly at first, gradually increasing your speed as you become more comfortable.

5. Two-Handed Tapping: Made famous by guitar virtuosos like Eddie Van Halen, two-handed tapping involves using both hands to tap on the fretboard. By tapping notes with your picking hand while simultaneously fretting notes with your other hand, you can create rapid-fire, cascading melodies and impressive solos.

6. Slide Guitar: Slide guitar is a technique where you use a slide (typically made of glass, metal, or ceramic) to glide along the strings, producing smooth and soulful sounds. It's commonly associated with blues and country music. Experiment with different slides and techniques like vibrato and bending to add expressiveness to your playing.

7. Fingerstyle Percussion: Fingerstyle percussion involves using your guitar as a percussive instrument. By tapping, slapping, or drumming on the body of the guitar while simultaneously playing chords or melodies, you can create rhythmic and dynamic textures. This technique is often used in genres like flamenco and acoustic fingerstyle.

Remember, these techniques may take time and practice to master, but they can add a whole new dimension to your playing. So, grab your guitar, experiment with these techniques, and have fun exploring new sonic possibilities!

If you have any more questions or need further guidance, feel free to ask. Keep rocking and enjoy your guitar journey!

Stay tuned for more insightful articles, tips, and guides on Guitars Republic, your ultimate guide to everything about guitars.

Tommy Pick

Blues Music, Record Producing, History of Music, Advanced Guitar Techniques

Tommy Pick is a blues guitarist and a record producer. He has been playing the guitar for more than 25 years and has produced albums for several blues bands. Tommy enjoys writing about the history of blues music and advanced guitar techniques.