As a beginner guitarist, you may be intrigued by the technique of tapping on the guitar. This article will provide you with valuable insights on how to get started with tapping, focusing on simple exercises and useful tips to develop your skills. By learning the basics of tapping and implementing them into your daily practice, you can become proficient at this unique and versatile guitar technique.
Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with Scales
Before diving into guitar tapping, ensure that you have a solid understanding of scales, particularly the three-note-per-string scales, such as the G major scale. This foundational knowledge will allow you to create exercises that incorporate tapping more effectively.
Step 2: Develop Tapping Exercises
Start by devising exercises that involve using your index finger, ring finger, or middle finger on your left hand. Replace the third note in your scale with a tap from your middle finger on your right hand. For instance, you can tap through the G major scale using this method.
Step 3: Explore Single Finger Taps
Another enjoyable and easy way to practice tapping is by employing single finger taps, reminiscent of a hillbilly style. Start at the fifth fret on the low E and A strings, and then tap the 15th fret on the A string. This simple exercise will help you become more comfortable with tapping while still having fun with it.
Step 4: Integrate Tapping into Your Scales
Incorporate tapping into your scales to enhance your skills further. For example, you can play through an A minor scale while adding taps as you progress. This approach will help you become more adept at integrating tapping into various scales and musical contexts.
Step 5: Challenge Yourself
Once you have mastered the basics of tapping, consider exploring more advanced techniques. Professional guitarists, such as Doug from the Breakthrough Guitar team, often use complex and challenging tapping patterns, including atonal and stretched out sequences. While these advanced methods may seem daunting initially, pushing your boundaries will ultimately help you grow as a guitarist.
In conclusion, practicing tapping is an excellent way to expand your guitar skills and repertoire. By starting with simple exercises, mastering your scales, and progressively challenging yourself, you can become proficient at this unique and versatile technique. Don’t forget to be patient and persistent, as developing calluses on your fingers and mastering the art of guitar tapping takes time and dedication. And if you’re looking for more guidance, don’t hesitate to explore online resources, such as Breakthrough Guitar’s YouTube channel, to further enhance your learning experience. Happy tapping!
