If you’re new to playing guitar, you may have heard the term “hammer on” and wondered what it means. A hammer on is a guitar technique that allows you to play a note without picking it. Instead, you use your fretting hand to “hammer” down on the string, creating a sound that’s similar to picking. This technique is commonly used in rock, blues, and other genres of music.
To perform a hammer on, you’ll need to use your fretting hand to press down on a string, creating a note. Then, without lifting your finger off the string, you’ll use your finger to “hammer” down on the string, creating a second note. This technique can be used to create fast, fluid passages and is often used in solos and lead guitar playing.
Key Takeaways
- Hammer-ons are a guitar technique that allows you to play a note without picking it.
- To perform a hammer-on, you’ll need to use your fretting hand to press down on a string, creating a note, and then hammer down on the string with the same finger to create a second note.
- This technique is commonly used in rock, blues, and other genres of music, and can be used to create fast, fluid passages.
Understanding Hammer-On Technique
If you’re a beginner guitarist, you may be wondering what a hammer-on is and how to perform it. A hammer-on is a guitar technique where you use your fretting hand to produce a note without plucking the string. Instead, you “hammer” your finger onto the fretboard to make the string vibrate and produce sound.
To perform a hammer-on, you need to have good coordination between your fretting hand and your picking hand. You should start by fretting a note with your fretting hand and then quickly hammering your finger onto the fretboard with enough force to produce a clear sound. The key to a successful hammer-on is to strike the string with enough force to make it vibrate and produce a clear sound.
Articulation is also an important factor in hammer-on technique. You should aim to produce a clean and clear sound when hammering on a note. If your finger doesn’t hit the fretboard hard enough, the note may sound muted or unclear. On the other hand, if you hit the string too hard, it may produce unwanted noise or sound out of tune.
One way to improve your hammer-on technique is to practice with a metronome. This will help you develop good timing and rhythm, which are essential for hammer-ons and other guitar techniques. You can also try using different fingers to hammer on different notes, which will help you develop your coordination and dexterity.
The Role of Fretting Hand
When playing the guitar, the fretting hand is responsible for pressing down the strings against the frets to produce different notes. This hand is located on the neck of the guitar, and it is where most of the action takes place. The other hand, the strumming or picking hand, is responsible for producing the sound by plucking or strumming the strings.
The fretting hand is made up of three fingers: the index finger, the middle finger, and the ring finger. The index finger is used to press down the strings on the first fret, while the middle finger is used for the second fret, and the ring finger for the third fret. The first finger is also known as the pointer finger, and the third finger is also known as the ring finger.
When playing a hammer-on, the fretting hand plays a crucial role. This technique involves striking a note on the guitar by hammering down on the string with one of the fingers of the fretting hand. The hammer-on technique is often used to create fast, fluid lines, and it is commonly used in rock, blues, and metal music.
To play a hammer-on, you need to start by fretting a note with your index finger. Then, you use your ring finger to hammer down on the string at a higher fret, without picking the string again. This creates a new note, which is higher in pitch than the original note. The key to playing a successful hammer-on is to strike the string with enough force to produce a clear, ringing sound.
Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs
If you’re looking to add some flair to your guitar playing, hammer-ons and pull-offs are essential techniques to master. A hammer-on is when you play a note and then use your fretting hand to “hammer” down on a higher note without picking the string again. A pull-off is the opposite – you play a note and then use your fretting hand to “pull” the string down to a lower note without picking the string again.
Hammer-ons and pull-offs are indicated in guitar tab with a curved line connecting the notes. The letter “h” is used to indicate a hammer-on, and “p” is used to indicate a pull-off. For example, if you see “5h7” in a guitar tab, it means you should play the 5th fret and then hammer-on to the 7th fret without picking the string again.
One of the benefits of using hammer-ons and pull-offs is that they allow you to play faster and more smoothly than if you were to pick every note. They also give your playing a more fluid and expressive sound. However, it’s important to note that these techniques require a good amount of finger strength and dexterity, so it’s important to practice them regularly.
When practicing hammer-ons and pull-offs, start with a simple exercise like playing a single note and then hammering-on to a higher note, and then pulling-off back down to the original note. Gradually increase the difficulty by adding more notes and playing them in different patterns.
Guitar Types and Hammer-On Technique
When it comes to guitar types, the hammer-on technique can be used on both acoustic and electric guitars. However, the technique is more commonly associated with electric guitars, as it allows for greater sustain and volume.
To perform a hammer-on, you simply strike a note on the guitar and then use your fretting hand to “hammer” down on a higher note without plucking the string again. This creates a smooth, legato sound that can add depth and complexity to your playing.
While the hammer-on technique can be used on any guitar, it is particularly effective on electric guitars due to their thinner necks and lower action. This allows for faster, more precise hammer-ons, which can be used to create intricate solos and riffs.
If you’re just starting out with the hammer-on technique, it’s important to practice slowly and focus on accuracy and timing. You can also experiment with different finger placements and hammer-on patterns to create unique sounds and textures.
In addition to the hammer-on technique, there are a variety of other techniques that can be used to create dynamic guitar playing, including pull-offs, slides, and bends. By mastering these techniques and incorporating them into your playing, you can take your guitar skills to the next level and create truly unforgettable music.
Influence on Volume and Tone
When using a hammer on guitar technique, you may notice a change in volume and tone. This is due to the added force and pressure applied to the string when using the hammer on technique.
The volume of the note will be louder when using a hammer on compared to a regular plucked note. This is because the hammer on technique adds more force to the string, causing it to vibrate more and produce a louder sound.
In terms of tone, the hammer on technique can create a more sustained and fuller sound. This is because the added force and pressure on the string allows it to vibrate for a longer period of time, producing a more sustained note.
It’s important to note that the influence on volume and tone can vary depending on the mode you are playing in. For example, in a minor key, the hammer on technique can create a more aggressive and intense tone, while in a major key, it can create a more uplifting and bright tone.
Role of Picking in Hammer-Ons
When playing guitar, the picking technique is crucial for producing hammer-ons. A hammer-on is a technique where you play a note, then use your fretting hand to “hammer” onto a higher note on the same string. The hammer-on technique is performed by picking a note with your picking hand and then using your fretting hand to “hammer” onto a higher note on the same string.
To perform a hammer-on, you need to pick the first note with your picking hand and then use your fretting hand to press down on the next note. The key to a good hammer-on is to use the right amount of force with your fretting hand. If you press too lightly, the note won’t sound, and if you press too hard, the note will sound sharp.
When picking for hammer-ons, it’s important to strike the string with enough force to produce a clear and strong sound. The picking hand should be relaxed and use a light touch, allowing the fretting hand to do most of the work.
It’s also important to maintain a steady rhythm when performing hammer-ons. This can be achieved by practicing with a metronome or drum machine. Practicing hammer-ons with a metronome will help you improve your timing and accuracy, making your playing sound more professional.
Hammer-Ons in Scales and Modes
When playing scales and modes on the guitar, hammer-ons can be used to create a smooth and fluid sound. By hammering-on from one note to the next, you can connect the notes seamlessly, without having to pick each note separately.
Hammer-ons are particularly useful when playing scales and modes that involve a lot of notes on a single string. For example, the pentatonic scale pattern often involves playing several notes on a single string before moving to the next string. By using hammer-ons, you can play these notes more quickly and smoothly.
To use hammer-ons in scales and modes, simply play the first note as normal, but instead of picking the second note, use your fretting hand to hammer-on to the next note. Make sure to use enough force to create a clear, strong sound.
When practicing hammer-ons in scales and modes, it’s important to pay attention to your timing and rhythm. Make sure that each note is played evenly and at the correct tempo. You may want to start slowly and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable with the technique.
Practical Musical Examples
Now that we have discussed what a hammer-on is, let’s take a look at some practical musical examples. Hammer-ons are used in a variety of musical genres, so it’s important to understand how they can be used in different contexts.
Rock and Metal
In rock and metal, hammer-ons are often used to create fast, fluid runs and solos. This technique is commonly used by guitarists like Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai, and Joe Satriani. Here are a few examples of hammer-ons in rock and metal:
- In the intro to “Eruption” by Van Halen, the guitar solo features a series of fast hammer-ons and pull-offs.
- The main riff in Metallica’s “One” features a descending hammer-on run in the second half of the riff.
- The solo in “Tender Surrender” by Steve Vai features a mix of hammer-ons and pull-offs to create a fluid, legato sound.
Blues
In blues music, hammer-ons are often used to create a “bent” sound without actually bending the string. This technique is commonly used by guitarists like Stevie Ray Vaughan and B.B. King. Here are a few examples of hammer-ons in blues:
- In the intro to “Pride and Joy” by Stevie Ray Vaughan, the guitar riff features a mix of hammer-ons and pull-offs to create a fluid, bluesy sound.
- The solo in “The Thrill is Gone” by B.B. King features a mix of hammer-ons and pull-offs to create a smooth, soulful sound.
- In “Crossfire” by Stevie Ray Vaughan, the main riff features a mix of hammer-ons and pull-offs to create a driving, bluesy sound.
Acoustic Guitar
In acoustic guitar music, hammer-ons are often used to create a percussive, rhythmic sound. This technique is commonly used in fingerstyle guitar playing. Here are a few examples of hammer-ons in acoustic guitar:
- In “Blackbird” by The Beatles, the guitar riff features a mix of hammer-ons and pull-offs to create a percussive, rhythmic sound.
- The intro to “Dust in the Wind” by Kansas features a mix of hammer-ons and pull-offs to create a flowing, melodic sound.
- In “Classical Gas” by Mason Williams, the guitar riff features a mix of hammer-ons and pull-offs to create a complex, fingerstyle sound.
Remember, these are just a few examples of how hammer-ons can be used in different musical contexts. Experiment with different techniques and see how you can incorporate hammer-ons into your own playing.
Legato Technique and Hammer-Ons
When it comes to guitar playing, the legato technique is one of the most important techniques to master. Legato playing involves playing notes smoothly and seamlessly, without any gaps or pauses between them. One of the most common techniques used in legato playing is the hammer-on.
A hammer-on is a technique where you use your fretting hand to “hammer” a string onto the fretboard, creating a new note without having to pick the string again. This technique is often used to create fast, fluid lines of notes that would be difficult to play with alternate picking.
To perform a hammer-on, you start by fretting a note with one of your fingers. Then, without picking the string again, you use another finger to “hammer” onto a higher fret on the same string. This creates a new note that is higher in pitch than the original note.
One of the keys to performing a good hammer-on is to use a lot of force when you hammer onto the string. This will help ensure that the new note rings out clearly and is heard over any other noise in the guitar’s sound.
Another important aspect of hammer-ons is the timing. You want to make sure that you hammer onto the new note at the right time, so that it fits in with the rest of the music you are playing. This takes practice, but with time, you will develop a good sense of timing and be able to perform hammer-ons with ease.
Overall, the legato technique and hammer-ons are essential skills for any guitarist. They allow you to create fast, fluid lines of notes that can add a lot of excitement and energy to your playing. With practice and patience, you can master these techniques and take your guitar playing to the next level.
Tips for Beginner Guitarists
If you are a beginner guitarist looking to improve your hammer-on technique, there are a few tips that can help you get started. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Start slow: When first learning how to do a hammer-on, it’s important to start slow and work your way up to faster speeds. This will help you build muscle memory and develop the necessary finger strength.
- Use the right finger: The finger you use for the hammer-on can make a big difference in how it sounds. Generally, it’s best to use your strongest finger (usually your middle or ring finger) to get the best sound.
- Practice with a metronome: Practicing with a metronome can help you develop a sense of timing and rhythm. This is especially important when working on hammer-ons, as they require precise timing to sound good.
- Experiment with different fretting hand positions: Depending on the song or riff you are playing, you may need to adjust your fretting hand position to get the best sound. Experiment with different finger placements to find what works best for you.
- Don’t forget about your picking hand: While the hammer-on is performed with your fretting hand, your picking hand also plays a role in getting a good sound. Make sure you are using the correct picking technique and that your picking hand is in the right position.
By keeping these tips in mind and practicing regularly, you can improve your hammer-on technique and become a more skilled guitarist.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you perform a hammer-on on guitar?
A hammer-on is a technique used on the guitar to play a note without plucking the string again. To perform a hammer-on, you need to start by playing a note on the guitar. While the note is still ringing out, you need to press your finger down on a higher fret on the same string. The force of your finger pressing down on the string should create a new note without plucking the string.
What is the symbol for a hammer-on in guitar tab?
The symbol for a hammer-on in guitar tab is a curved line that connects two notes. The line starts from the lower note and curves up to the higher note. This symbol indicates that you need to perform a hammer-on to play the higher note.
What is the difference between a hammer-on and a pull-off on guitar?
A hammer-on is a technique used to play a higher note without plucking the string again, while a pull-off is a technique used to play a lower note without plucking the string again. To perform a pull-off, you need to start by playing a note on the guitar. While the note is still ringing out, you need to pull your finger off the string to create a new note.
Can you use hammer-ons on bass guitar?
Yes, you can use hammer-ons on bass guitar. Hammer-ons are a common technique used on bass guitar, especially in genres like funk and metal.
How do you read guitar tab for a pull-off?
The symbol for a pull-off in guitar tab is a curved line that connects two notes. The line starts from the higher note and curves down to the lower note. This symbol indicates that you need to perform a pull-off to play the lower note.
What is the meaning of a hammer-on in music theory?
In music theory, a hammer-on is a type of ornamentation used to add interest and variation to a melody. A hammer-on involves playing a note, then quickly hammering on to a higher note without plucking the string again. Hammer-ons are often used in guitar solos to create fast, fluid runs of notes.
