How to Play 12-String Guitar Frets
If you are relatively proficient at playing a 6-string guitar and are thinking of learning to play a 12-string guitar, there are a few things you should know before making the switch. A 12-string guitar is played in a very similar way to a 6-string guitar, and most chord charts and melodies translate directly. The difference is that you will be holding down two strings with each finger instead of one and striking each pair of strings with the pick as if it were one string on a 6-string guitar.
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Instructions
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Begin with some chords that you already know on a 6-string guitar, and use a chord chart for reference if needed. You can find some basic chord charts in the Resources section.
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Examine the 12 strings and the fretboard and visualize the strings in pairs, so that you think of each pair as a single "string."
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Place the first finger of your chord on the fretboard and press down the paired strings with one finger. For example, if the chord chart calls for you to press the first string at the first fret, press the first pair of strings at the first fret. You may need to use more pressure than you are used to with a 6-string guitar. Also, you made need to slide your finger closer to the fret to avoid muting one of the strings.
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Continue to add the other fingers of the chord, seeing each pair of strings as a single string.
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Strum the strings with your other hand using the pick. You may find that you need to strum with a bit more force in order to hit all of the strings. Experiment with different types of up-and-down strumming techniques to find what works best.
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Practice playing your 12-string guitar on a regular basis to gain the dexterity and hand strength required to play more fluidly.
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Tips & Warnings
Click the Guitar Tips link in the Resources section for tips on tuning your 12-string guitar.
References
Resources
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