How to Play Pinch Harmonics
Pinch harmonics are artificial harmonics on a guitar. The technique of pinching a harmonic refers to the physical act of using a guitar pick to pinch a harmonic. Pinch harmonics are sometimes referred to as "squeezed" harmonics by guitar players, though this term isn't correct. Pinch harmonics are used by guitar players in various genres of music, but particularly in rock music. Ace Frehley of KISS and Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top are prime examples of guitarists who use this technique frequently. Pinch harmonics, when used sparingly, can add color to your guitar solos.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Set your amplifier settings with the treble setting all the way up and the bass setting at about halfway. Although you can pinch harmonics with a deep bass tone, they are heard more clearly with a treble tone. This causes the harmonics to ring out and can help get the "squeal" effect of the pinch harmonic. Turn your amp up as loudly as you can get away with.
-
2
Grasp your pick between your thumb and index finger and place it against a string. Be sure to choke up on the pick so that only the very tip of it peeks from between your thumb and index finger. The three highest strings (thinnest strings) produce the best pinch harmonics, so use one of these to start with.
-
-
3
Pick the string. As you pick the note, let the tip of your thumb immediately touch the string you've played. This dampens the note and allows the overtone to ring on. This is the harmonic. Try it until you hear a pure "squeal." This lets you know you've played the harmonic. It may take a couple of practice tries to get it right.
-
4
Play a solo or some licks and fills on your guitar (short bursts of notes). Hold your pick in the position described above and try pinching random harmonics. With some practice, you'll be able to pinch harmonics at will.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Drag the edge of your pick up and down your strings several times to create grooves. You can pinch harmonics easily by allowing these grooves to "catch" on your strings as you play. This dampens the strings and pinches a harmonic.
