Harmonics

Harmonics are a unique and ethereal aspect of guitar playing, adding colour and atmosphere to a performance. They occur when a string is lightly touched at specific points called nodes, which divide the string into equal segments and produce a bell-like tone when the string is plucked. The most common harmonics are found at the 12th, 7th, and 5th frets, corresponding to the octave, perfect fifth, and two octaves above the open string, respectively.

However, harmonics can also be produced at other frets and through various techniques, such as pinch harmonics, tapped harmonics, or artificial harmonics. Incorporating harmonics into one’s playing requires a delicate touch, precise finger placement, and a solid understanding of the guitar’s fretboard. Mastering harmonics can add a new dimension to a guitarist’s sound, allowing for a greater range of tonal possibilities and musical expression.

Check out these Licklibrary guitar Lessons and Courses to learn more about playing harmonics on the guitar.