Let's take the first part - what is a harmonic?
A harmonic is a series of tones produced by vibrating
a string i.e. by plucking.
To get an octave harmonic, the open 6th and 1st strings
plucked will give the same note but at an octave apart
from each other. This is known as a natural harmonic
i.e. the harmonic is achieved by playing open strings.
If you hold down the 5th fret, 2nd string which is 'E', and
strike that string followed by and open 1st string, you
will still be playing a harmonic. Two notes - the same -
but on different strings.
They can be used in different ways - in classical guitar,
they are a natural link to move from passage to passage
as the melody flows. Harmonics are also helpful in
tuning your guitar. You will need to have the top string
tuned correctly.
Step 1:
Place your finger on the 5th fret of the top string. At the
same time, place your finger lightly on the 7th fret, 5th
string.
Step 2:
Strike both strings at the same time. They should
sound exactly the same. If not, one of them is out of
tune.
Using this technique of tuning is fairly accurate as you
are striking both strings at the same time. They both
produce a very distinct tone that makes it easier to pick
if one is out of tune. This technique works on all strings
except the 3rd where the other method of 5th fret, 4th
string is needed to get the 3rd string pitched correctly.
It's true, you do learn something new every day! That's
it from us for this edition. Don't forget to check out the
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