One of the most common questions in regards to rhythm is how to play a triplet picking pattern. In order to do so you must first understand how a triplet works.
A triplet is split evenly into three parts within a quarter note. It’s like squeezing 3 eighth notes into one beat however, the duration of each is now slightly shorter due to the limited amount of time to fit each note within that beat.
Rhythm #1
Here is a quarter note pattern to start with. Pluck each note as one beat.
We added a half note at the end to fulfill the measure.
Rhythm #2
Now let’s try an eighth note pattern. Pluck two notes for each beat. They must fit evenly within the quarter note on the down and up beats.
Rhythm #3
Finally, this is the triplet pattern. I would recommend started by plucking only the first string with this rhythm. Count the rhythm as “one and ah, two and ah”.
Here is a video on popular finger picking patterns to start with:
If you were having trouble making the trip it’s even within the beat try using a metronome set a quarter notes 40 BPM and practice playing three notes within each beat.
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Guitar Drop Tunings
Today, we’re going to explore this versatile tuning technique that has been embraced by guitarists across various genres, from rock and metal to alternative and beyond.
Drop tunings involve lowering the pitch of one or more strings to create a deeper, heavier sound. The most common drop tuning is Drop D (DADGBE), where the low E string is tuned down a whole step to D. Other popular drop tunings include Drop C (CGCFAD) and Drop B (BF#BEG#C#).
One of the main advantages of drop tunings is the ease of playing power chords and barre chords, as the lower tuning allows for wider intervals between the strings. This creates a heavier, more aggressive sound that’s perfect for riff-based music and heavy rhythm playing.
To get started with guitar drop tunings, simply tune your guitar to the desired tuning using a tuner or by ear. Experiment with playing power chords, barre chords, and open chords in the drop tuning to get a feel for the different sounds and possibilities it offers.
Once you’re comfortable with the basics of drop tunings, challenge yourself to explore different chord voicings, melodies, and improvisations on the fretboard. Since drop tunings create unique harmonic possibilities, don’t be afraid to experiment with unconventional chord progressions and melodic ideas.
In addition to experimenting with drop tunings on your own, try listening to recordings of guitarists who use drop tunings creatively in their playing. This will help you develop an ear for recognizing drop tunings in music and inspire you to incorporate them into your own playing.
In conclusion, mastering guitar drop tunings is a rewarding journey that can greatly expand your sonic palette and musical creativity. By exploring the heavy, aggressive sound of drop tunings, you can create music that’s bold, powerful, and truly captivating. So grab your guitar and start exploring the world of drop tunings today!
Guitar Open Tunings
Today, we’re diving into the world of guitar open tunings – a versatile and exciting approach that can unlock a whole new universe of sounds and possibilities on the fretboard.
Open tunings involve tuning the strings of the guitar to form a chord when played open (i.e., without pressing down any frets). This allows you to create rich, resonant harmonies and explore unique chord voicings and melodies that are not possible in standard tuning.
There are countless open tunings to explore, each with its own distinct sound and character. Some of the most common open tunings include Open D (DADF#AD), Open G (DGDGBD), and Open C (CGCGCE), but the possibilities are truly endless.
To get started with guitar open tunings, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the tuning patterns and chord shapes associated with each tuning. Experiment with tuning your guitar to different open tunings and explore how the altered string intervals affect the overall sound and feel of the instrument.
Once you have a basic understanding of open tunings, start experimenting with different chord voicings, melodies, and improvisations on the fretboard. Since open tunings create unique harmonic possibilities, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and explore unconventional chord progressions and melodic ideas.
In addition to exploring open tunings on your own, try listening to recordings of guitarists who use open tunings creatively in their playing. This will help you develop an ear for recognizing open tunings in music and inspire you to incorporate them into your own playing.
In conclusion, mastering guitar open tunings is a rewarding journey that can greatly enhance your playing and musical creativity. By exploring the rich harmonic possibilities of open tunings, you can create music that is unique, expressive, and truly captivating. So grab your guitar and start experimenting with open tunings today!
Guitar Double Stops
Whether you’re a beginner eager to expand your repertoire or an advanced player looking to add depth and dimension to your playing, mastering double stops can take your guitar skills to the next level.
Double stops are simply two notes played simultaneously on the guitar, creating a harmonious blend of tones. They are commonly used in various styles of music, from blues and rock to country and folk, to add richness and texture to chord progressions and melodies.
To get started with guitar double stops, it’s essential to understand basic music theory concepts like intervals and chord construction. Familiarize yourself with common intervals such as thirds, fourths, fifths, and sixths, and experiment with playing them together on different strings and frets.
Once you have a solid understanding of intervals, start practicing double stops using simple chord progressions and melodies. Focus on maintaining clean and clear articulation, ensuring that both notes ring out evenly and harmoniously.
As you become more comfortable with double stops, challenge yourself to incorporate them into your playing in musical contexts. Experiment with using double stops to embellish chords, add melodic flourishes, and create interesting harmonies in your compositions and arrangements.
In addition to practicing double stops on your own, try listening to recordings of guitarists who use double stops creatively in their playing. This will help you develop an ear for recognizing double stops in music and inspire you to incorporate them into your own playing.
In conclusion, mastering guitar double stops is a valuable skill that can greatly enhance your playing and musical creativity. By adding depth and dimension to your music with double stops, you can create sounds that are rich, expressive, and truly captivating. So grab your guitar and start exploring the world of double stops today!
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