Natural Harmonics On Guitar:
How Do Natural Harmonics Work?
When you lightly touch a guitar string at precise spots, you divide the string into equal sections, stopping certain vibrations and amplifying others.
This produces pure, harmonic overtones instead of the usual note. The most common spots for natural harmonics are:
12th fret: Produces the same pitch as the open string but an octave higher.
7th fret: Creates a pitch that’s 1.5 octaves above the open string.
5th fret: Generates a pitch two octaves above the open string.
These spots align with the string’s natural vibration nodes.
Why Use Natural Harmonics?
Natural harmonics add variety, color, and beauty to your playing.
How to Play Natural Harmonics
Light Touch: Rest your finger lightly on the string directly above the fret wire. Don’t press down.
Pick Cleanly: Use your picking hand to pluck the string firmly.
Release Quickly: As soon as you hear the harmonic, lift your finger off the string to let it ring.
Where Do You Hear Natural Harmonics?
Natural harmonics are everywhere, from iconic rock riffs to serene acoustic passages:
Rock and Metal: Guitarists like Eddie Van Halen and Steve Vai use harmonics to add flair to solos.
Acoustic Ballads: Artists like Andy McKee use harmonics for their shimmering, delicate sound.
Experimental Music: Harmonics are a favorite tool for creating eerie or spacey vibes.
This is how natural harmonics are represented in standard notation and TABs:
Short Summary
Natural harmonics are those clear, ringing tones you create by lightly touching a guitar string at specific points.
They’re different from pinch harmonics, which require a specific pick-and-thumb technique, so don’t get confused!
Natural harmonics add a touch of magic to your music and are an essential skill for exploring unique and expressive guitar sounds.