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nuclear81
05-12-2006, 04:59 PM
Hey, just wondering if it is normal for me to be having a really hard time with pinch harminics. I don't have an instractor, so I don't know if I am doing them exactly right, but I am following alog with book and online instractions as best I can, but I still cannot get them. Any pointers? Thanks
Pablo Gilberto
05-12-2006, 05:04 PM
Just practice it. It's not something You get down in 2 minutes, but if you practice it every day it should go after a while. In the beginning I would play just one note on one string ( mostly D-string) and I would try to figure out where my harmonic sounded best. (moving your picking hand..) Then I would move up the string and play on others strings too. Also I noticed that some frets "pinch harmoniced" better then others.

Hope this helps

Good Luck
hairballxavier
05-12-2006, 10:37 PM
You may find this IBM thread (http://www.ibreathemusic.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9334) helpful. It describes several different techniques for getting "pinch harmonics".

If that doesn't help you, let us know, we'll get you on the right track.


And yes it is "normal" to have a hard time with it, until you realize how incredibly easy it is.
newamerikangosp
05-14-2006, 01:33 AM
And don't forget, pinch harmonics change depending on the placement of the pick/finger you use for the pinch. Just like natural harmonics, the placement is extremely crucial
Wintersun
05-15-2006, 11:44 PM
This may sound stupid, but make sure you have enough distortion. That was my problem when I was first learning to pinch harmonic.
Diabolet
05-16-2006, 10:10 AM
Alot of people use compressors, when there playing at low volumes, say in your bedroom. Harmonics come out best at high volume really.
UKRuss
05-16-2006, 10:52 AM
Not sure I aree with the distortion or the high volume statements.

Perhaps distortion gives them more of a squeal and sustain, but I think practicing them clean really focusses on getting the technique down.

You have to get it just right or the thumb dampens the harmonic and it's all over.

But they sound great clean and you can get a nice jangly effect going on.
leppard81
05-16-2006, 02:54 PM
Beside placing your right hand above your bridge single coil; make sure to have your HUMBUCKER turned ON! - YouŽll have a hard time creating pinch harmonics with single coils!!