Tap harmonic

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Tap Harmonics is a technique used with fretted string instruments (usually guitar). It is executed by tapping on the fret bar itself an octave higher than the fretted note on the same string. This can be done on frets 1-9 (and fret "0") on a normal 21 fret guitar, but can be done on 1-12 on a 24 fret guitar, including the open note in 2 different places. This is not absolute, however; with a bit of guesswork it can be executed on virtually any fret, and tapping an unmarked spot on the string. The octave mark for any fretted note is the midpoint between the fret and the bridge, so it can be estimated for notes above the 9th fret. It can also be done by slightly putting the finger over the fret if the string is already ringing. It can be made easier and more clear with gain (distortion), but can also make a "muddy" sound if incorrectly executed. Eddie Van Halen makes extensive use of tap harmonics in the song Dance the Night Away.

[edit] Example

E string, 3rd fret (G note), 15th fret

[edit] Uses

Its use, like most harmonics in music, is limited, but much more popular in rock.

[edit] See also

• Harmonics