How to Play Harmonics on the Bass Guitar

Bass guitar players who play harmonics are using a special feature of the fretted string instrument that allows players to create ethereal high notes by touching the strings at the frets. To play harmonics, learn the difference between "regular" notes played between the frets, and the particular technique that produces the harmonic notes.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Start at the fifth fret. This is the standard for harmonics, as they only work on certain parts of the fretboard.

2. Instead of putting your finger between the frets as you would normally do, place it directly over the fifth fret.

3. Keep a very light pressure on the string. Do not press down against the neck.

4. Pluck the string with your right hand, and then release your finger pressure on the string. You should hear a light, high note sound. Try it until you think you've heard the harmonic note.

5. Try playing harmonics at the seventh, ninth and twelfth frets. These are other areas that can produce harmonic notes.

Tips & Warnings

• Use harmonics to tune your bass guitar. Not all bass guitar players care about harmonics, but some insist that it's easier to hear dissonance between 2 notes when you play them in harmonics. To tune your strings, hit the low string harmonic at the fifth fret along with the string above it at the seventh fret. Listen for a "wavering" sound that means the strings are slightly out of tune. Tune as necessary to eliminate that wavering sound.