Guitar Techniques

Sound a note by hammering a finger onto the fretboard without picking. Creates a smooth, legato sound.

Sound a note by pulling a finger off the string. The opposite of a hammer-on.

Move from one note to another by sliding your finger along the string.

Push or pull the string across the fretboard to raise the pitch. The soul of blues and rock.

Rapidly vary the pitch of a note for expression and sustain. Makes notes sing.

Use one finger to press multiple strings across a fret. Unlocks the entire fretboard.

Rapidly alternate between two notes using hammer-ons and pull-offs.

Rest the edge of your palm on the strings near the bridge for a chunky, muted sound.

Strictly alternate between down and up strokes for speed and efficiency.

Sweep the pick across strings in a single motion while fretting arpeggios. The speed technique.

Combine pick and fingers for wide intervals and chord-melody playing.

Pluck strings directly with your fingertips instead of a pick. Creates intimate, classical sounds.

Use your picking hand to hammer notes on the fretboard. Creates wide interval runs and arpeggios.

Rapidly pick the same note for a sustained, shimmering effect.

Create a screaming harmonic by catching the string with your thumb after picking.

Create harmonics at any fret by touching the string 12 frets above the fretted note.