Nuno Bettencourt - Tech Session by George Marios

Introduction

Welcome to the "Nuno Bettencourt - Tech Session" by George Marios, an exclusive guitar lesson series designed to help you master the intricate techniques of one of rock's most innovative guitarists. This comprehensive session is divided into two detailed lessons and a performance, each meticulously crafted to enhance your guitar playing skills. Whether you're a seasoned guitarist or an eager beginner, these lessons will guide you through the core techniques that define Nuno Bettencourt's unique style, providing you with the tools to elevate your playing to new heights.

Lesson Part 1

In Lesson Part 1, George Marios takes you through a series of foundational techniques essential for emulating Nuno Bettencourt's dynamic playing style. This lesson focuses on the following techniques:

Alternate Picking

Alternate picking is a critical technique for achieving speed and precision. By alternating the pick strokes between downstrokes and upstrokes, you'll develop a smoother and more controlled picking motion, which is crucial for playing fast and complex passages accurately.

Legato

Legato playing involves using hammer-ons and pull-offs to create a smooth, flowing sound. This technique allows you to connect notes seamlessly, producing a fluid and expressive style that is a hallmark of Bettencourt's solos.

Tapped Harmonics

Tapped harmonics add a unique, bell-like quality to your playing. By tapping on specific fret locations with your picking hand, you can produce harmonics that stand out brilliantly in your solos and riffs, adding a distinctive texture to your sound.

Double-Stop Bends

Double-stop bends involve bending two strings simultaneously, creating a rich, harmonic sound. This technique is perfect for adding depth and intensity to your solos, capturing the aggressive yet melodic essence of Bettencourt's playing.

Lesson Part 2

Lesson Part 2 delves deeper into advanced techniques that further enhance your musical vocabulary. In this section, George Marios explores:

Pinched Harmonics

Pinched harmonics produce high-pitched squeals by lightly touching the string with the thumb or pick after striking it. This technique is essential for adding an aggressive edge to your playing, creating a signature sound that cuts through the mix.

Sweep Picking

Sweep picking allows you to play arpeggios quickly and smoothly by using a single, continuous motion across the strings. This technique is fundamental for executing fast, intricate passages with precision and clarity.

Two-Handed Tapping

Two-handed tapping involves using both hands to tap notes on the fretboard, enabling you to play complex and rapid sequences that would be impossible with conventional picking alone. This technique is a cornerstone of modern rock and metal guitar playing.

Vibrato

Vibrato adds expression and sustain to your notes by varying the pitch slightly. Mastering vibrato will give your playing a more vocal quality, making your solos sound more emotive and engaging.

Performance

The final section of this tech session features a full performance by George Marios, showcasing the techniques discussed in a musical context. Watching the techniques applied in a performance setting is incredibly beneficial for several reasons:

1. Contextual Understanding: Seeing how techniques are used within a song helps you understand their practical applications and how they contribute to the overall musical piece.
2. Timing and Dynamics: Observing the timing and dynamics of a performance teaches you how to integrate these techniques seamlessly, enhancing your musicality and stage presence.
3. Inspiration: Watching a skilled guitarist like George Marios perform can inspire you to practice harder and explore new creative avenues in your playing.

Guitar Techniques Used

• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Tapped Harmonics
• Double-Stop Bends
• Pinched Harmonics
• Sweep Picking
• Two-Handed Tapping
• Vibrato

Embark on this musical journey with the "Nuno Bettencourt - Tech Session" by George Marios and transform your guitar playing. With dedication and practice, these lessons will help you master the techniques that define one of rock's greatest guitarists. Happy playing!