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Drummed Harmonics

Drummed harmonics is an easy way of playing chords with harmonics. It follows the same technique as tapped harmonics. The index finger is used to simultaneously tap the strings used in the chord (12 frets above each note). Normally only straight chord shapes are used because of the difficulty in tapping several strings at once. Check out the harmonic strumming section and you'll find some appropriate chords. You may find that you can only comfortably tap 3 note chords.

Instructions:

  1. Mute the 1st, 5th and 6th strings of the guitar.
  2. With your index finger (the side opposite the nail) tap the 2nd, 3rd and 4th strings directly above the 12th fret.

If you remove your finger quickly the harmonics should ring out clearly. An amplified sound should enable you to hear any imperfections. Try the same technique with fretted chords.

Instructions:

  1. With your 1st finger hold the 5th frets of the 2nd, 3rd and 4th strings.
  2. With your index finger tap the appropriate strings directly over the 17th fret bar (12 frets above).

Tip - if you attempt diagonal shaped chords try using the tips of several fingers to tap, rather than stretching your index finger over the strings.