In this article we are going to learn how to play hammer on's and pull off's.
If you recall in the last mini guitar lesson I showed you how to move the pentatonic pattern 1 round the neck. In this article we will expand on that to bring a technique called the "hammer on".
So, for this example we will take pattern 1 at the 5th fret (Am).
A "hammer on" is played by holding down the 6th string at the 5th fret and proceed to pick it. Now hit your 4th finger hard down onto the 8th fret hard enough to make the string hit the fret and sound out as loud as if you'd picked it!
You need to practice playing this on all the strings in the scale pattern... and it is known as "hammering on"!!!
Once you are able to play the "hammer on" quickly you will build up your speed over time and find that you will be able to play notes quickly without having to pick the strings individually. This will speed up your overall playing ability...
To practice, try to play your guitar EVERY day, play every day even if it is only for a few minutes it is better than not picking it up at all. Eventually your fingers will become on autopilot without you realizing...
So, following on from this mini lesson (hammer on's) that I gave you previously the 'pull off' is the next killer technique to learn!!
So to start off we will use pattern one at the 5th fret (Am). Now hold down the 8th fret with your 4th finger and also the 5th fret with your first finger on the 6th string.
Now pluck the string sounding the note at the 8th fret (C)
Here's the best bit: Flick the string with your 4th finger whilst the note is still ringing (pull off) to sound the note at the 5th fret (A), Do not use your plectrum at all.
Practice this technique on all the strings up and down the pentatonic pattern 1.
This killer technique combined with hammer on's is regular feature in great sounding solos.
The only way to get good at these techniques is to practice and practice until your fingers bleed! Only joking!!! Regular practice is essential in order to master these skills.
About The Author - Mike Jones: Mike has been teaching and playing guitar as a professional for over twenty years. He has created an unique guitar tutoring professionalgram geared to using his very own unique speed learning techniques to get the beginner through to great player in the shortest possible time. To find out more and receive some super FREE tips and tricks visit his website at: guitar lessons
