Slapped Harmonics Technique

Course: Percussive Fingerstyle with Chris Woods

In this video

We will explore the slapped harmonics technique.

For this lesson, we will explore the slapped harmonics technique.

Exercise 1 - Method

Creating slapped harmonics is an interesting technique, where feel is more important than precision.

  • Start off with the G shape (then remove the first and second finger off the fretboard) - we can create different shapes by moving the first and second fingers

  • Slap the lower E string, aiming for the fret wire and try keep a 'bounce' in the slap motion

    Angle the fingers (first and second finger) used for slapping straight down in the same direction as the fret wire

  • Hammer-on the first and second finger of the fretting hand to complete the G chord

  • Then, two slaps - one focussed around the low E string and the other around the D and G string

The tricky element of this technique is the fact it is more intuitive.

By playing in a relaxed manner and roughly aiming for a certain area to slap, we can achieve the desired sounds from the guitar - as long as we use our ears to find the spots that produce the best quality harmonics.

Don't be afraid to experiment...this is a great and interesting way to play notes!

Next Up: Slapped Harmonics Within Chords

Well done! Let's jump into the next lesson of the course.

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