Welcome to the exciting world of finger tapping techniques! Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist, a budding shredder, or somewhere in between, mastering the art of finger tapping can elevate your playing to new heights. At Shred’s Lick Library, we dive deep into various techniques and provide valuable insights to help you unlock your full shredding potential. Get ready to rev up your skills with this comprehensive guide to finger tapping!
Table of Contents
- 1. What is Finger Tapping?
- 2. The History of Finger Tapping
- 3. Essential Finger Tapping Techniques
- 4. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- 5. Tips for Practicing Finger Tapping
- 6. Example Licks to Master
- 7. Advanced Finger Tapping Techniques
- 8. Tools and Equipment for Finger Tapping
- 9. Conclusion
- 10. FAQs
1. What is Finger Tapping?
Finger tapping is a guitar technique that involves using one or more fingers of the picking hand to tap the frets on the guitar neck. This technique creates a unique sound that allows guitarists to play rapid sequences of notes, often resulting in advanced solos that are both complex and mesmerizing. The beauty of finger tapping lies in its ability to produce high-speed runs that would be challenging to achieve using traditional picking techniques.
2. The History of Finger Tapping
While it may seem like a modern technique, finger tapping has roots that stretch back to the 1930s. Les Paul is often credited with popularizing the concept, using it in his groundbreaking recordings. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s that finger tapping truly took flight, largely thanks to guitar legends like Eddie Van Halen. His iconic track “Eruption” showcased the technique’s power and agility, inspiring countless musicians to incorporate tapping into their own playing.
3. Essential Finger Tapping Techniques
Mastering finger tapping requires understanding various techniques that can enhance your playing. Here are some essential techniques to get you started:
3.1 Basic Tapping
Start by using your dominant hand to lightly tap a fret while using your other hand to fret an initial note. Ensure you create a clean sound by pressing down firmly.
3.2 Hammer-ons and Pull-offs
Incorporate hammer-ons and pull-offs in your tapped phrases. This will create smoother transitions and add musicality to your playing, resulting in a more expressive sound.
3.3 Combining Picking and Tapping
Mixing traditional picking techniques with tapping creates interesting dynamics. For instance, alternate between plucking the string and tapping to develop a rhythmically complex phrase.
3.4 Tapping Across Strings
To expand your tapping range, practice moving between strings. Tap on one string and pull-off to a fretted note on another string to create fluid melodic lines
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced players can fall into traps while learning finger tapping. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:
4.1 Inconsistent Volume
Ensure that your tapped notes are as clear and loud as those you pick. Practice adjusting your tapping strength to achieve even dynamics.
4.2 Poor Hand Position
Maintain proper hand positioning to avoid unwanted tension or injuries. Keep your wrist relaxed and your fingers poised to tap efficiently.
4.3 Neglecting Practice
Finger tapping requires patience and persistence. Set aside dedicated practice time to develop speed and accuracy, as consistent practice is key.
5. Tips for Practicing Finger Tapping
To effectively learn finger tapping, here are some tried-and-true tips:
5.1 Start Slow
Begin practicing at a slow tempo to ensure accuracy. Gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable with the technique.
5.2 Use a Metronome
Practicing with a metronome helps develop a solid sense of timing. Start at a comfortable pace and steadily increase the BPM as you progress.
5.3 Record Yourself
Recording your practice sessions can provide valuable feedback. Listen for areas of improvement, such as timing and clarity.
5.4 Focus on Relaxation
A relaxed hand is essential for effective tapping. Take breaks during practice to avoid fatigue and maintain optimal finger mobility.
6. Example Licks to Master
Here are some example licks that can help you get started with finger tapping:
6.1 Basic Tapped Melody
Begin with a simple, slow melody where you tap every other note. This will help you develop comfort and consistency.
6.2 The Van Halen Lick
Use a classic Van Halen lick and practice tapping the high notes while pulling off to well-fretted notes. This combines multiple techniques in one phrase.
6.3 Stairway to Shred
Create a fast ascending lick using a combination of picked notes and tapped sequences. Focus on the transitions for seamless play.
7. Advanced Finger Tapping Techniques
Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to explore advanced methods:
7.1 Tapping with Two Hands
Using both hands for tapping opens up endless melodic possibilities. Experiment with different fingerings and cross-patterns.
7.2 Tapping Harmonics
Combine tapping with harmonics for unique sound variations. This can create interesting textural layers within your solos.
7.3 Speed Drills
Create speed drills that incorporate various tapping patterns. Focus on increasing both your speed and precision in each drill.
8. Tools and Equipment for Finger Tapping
Although finger tapping can be executed on any guitar, certain tools can enhance your practice:
8.1 High-Quality Pickups
Utilize guitars with high-quality pickups to accurately capture the nuances of your tapping, which produces richer tones.
8.2 Effects Pedals
Consider using effects pedals like reverb or delay to add depth to your tone. These can make your tapping phrases sound more intriguing and professional.
8.3 Adjustable Guitar Action
Adjust your guitar action for comfort while tapping. A lower action can make it easier to tap without excessive force.
9. Conclusion
Finger tapping is an exhilarating technique that, when mastered, can expand your guitarist skills significantly. By understanding the various techniques, avoiding common pitfalls, and practicing diligently, you can break through your shredding limits. With dedication and creativity, your playing can leave a lasting impact, capturing the attention of your audience. So grab your guitar, head over to Shred’s Lick Library, and begin your journey to finger tapping mastery!
10. FAQs
What is the best guitar for finger tapping?
While many guitars can work well for finger tapping, those with a low action and high-quality pickups, such as Ibanez or Gibson models, are often preferred.
Can I use finger tapping on acoustic guitars?
Yes, finger tapping can be performed on acoustic guitars, although achieving the same sound quality as electric guitars may be challenging due to differences in volume and sustain.
How long does it take to master finger tapping?
The time it takes to master finger tapping varies from person to person, depending on their prior experience and practice dedication. With regular practice, noticeable improvement can be seen within weeks.
Are there any songs that feature finger tapping techniques?
Yes! Popular songs that prominently feature finger tapping include “Eruption” by Van Halen and “Scarborough Fair” by Simon & Garfunkel, among many others.
What finger should I use for tapping?
Typically, guitarists use their index or middle finger for tapping. However, experimenting with different fingers can yield unique sounds and styles.