How to play artificial harmonics on guitar!

[@brandonacker]

Learn classical guitar with my online course! 🎸 Classicalguitar-pro.com -Your first pieces -6 hours, 53 HD videos -PDFs, Downloads, and Quizzes -Simulated recital -Access to Brandon's feedback in an exclusive Facebook group

[@chrosbord]

What I find the most amazing about this video is your warmth and openness when teaching. Your skill and musicianship are excellent, but I've never felt such an earnest connection with a pre-recorded lesson. You are the kind of teacher I aspire to be, even after ten years of teaching music. Please keep up your incredible work, you definitely have a new fan.

[@gabrielmojay7720]

Just to say, how much I concur. Brandon's exceptional.

[@hannahjohnson4582]

I feel my whole body relax when I start watching a Brandon Acker video 😂 so peaceful and soothing.

[@jbfitzwilliam]

A wonderful gentle manner and a great teacher. Thank you for your lucid explanations and beautiful playing. So much talent!

[@Whamesl0l]

I love his no judgment attitude to teaching and how he always approaches lessons without assumptions. He explains things as if you've picked the guitar up for the first time but without being condescending or patronising. I've been an electric player for 15 years but only just decided to give classical playing a try and I feel like a total beginner again so these videos are invaluable to me as a self-taught player

[@raymondferguson3781]

I think it's that wonderful smile. He has the opposite of resting bitch face. I like to think it is because he loves to have a guitar in his hands so much that he just can't help smiling, but it's probably just a really well chosen default face.

[@amithsuresh8279]

I always wanted this.

[@calebwhiting6786]

Nice

[@backyardblacksmith3090]

Same

[@Rodrigo-qd7by]

Me too

[@vaishnavajith3420]

me too

[@harrycally2565]

And so easy to do 😂

[@MyOtheHedgeFox]

2:25 - The mere way how you seemingly effortlessly *show* each overtone, LIVE, is simply outstanding, Brandon. Absolutely jaw-dropping show of preparation and skill.

[@kristadzive]

I dont think thats really the impressive part, he probably needed at least two tries to be able to talk while playing the gymnopedie doh

[@dtanman]

SAME REACTION, I DIDN'T EVEN KNOW THEY EXISTED

[@kali2109]

@@dtanman do you play guitar?

[@ss_avsmt]

Wow, after many years, I learnt something new, and suddenly realised that most KZbinrs have become entertainers rather than helpful. YOU on the other hand have taught me something concretely. Subscribed!

[@H_azzard]

I dont even own a guitar but i still love how informative these videos are

[@gonsonandenschinder]

Same i love how passionate and happy he looks when talking about guitars

[@eduamendola]

Imagine how much more you would love it if you get yourself a guitar and actually learn this

[@deanfeldman2505]

Time to get a racket box. It's very therapeutic tackling compositions on guitar.

[@5skdm]

​@@eduamendola i did and its very cool

[@irakliiremashvili5190]

Even complete beginner like me could get this. You're an amazing teacher Brandon

[@HeySay3]

Easy to understand, soft-spoken, warm and very informative! Thank you, Brandon. I wish I had a teacher like you.

[@jameslangridge1674]

A testament to how good of a teacher you are is the fact that I already know everything you taught in this lesson and still watched it all the way through. So engaging and helpful. I loved learning this technique and messing with some folks minds by throwing them in a few "campfire" song sessions when least expected.

[@JakeFreivald]

Popping this out from a subthread. The octave is the one place where the harmonic and the fretted pitch are the same: 12th fret harmonic = 12th fret note. If you do a harmonic on the 7th fret, you get a note an octave and a fifth higher. If you do a harmonic on the 5th fret, you get a note two octaves higher.* If you do a harmonic just behind the 4th fret (or over the 9th fret), you get a note two octaves and a major third up.** So, just on the low E string: Open E = root. E 12th-fret harmonic = E an octave higher = E 12th fret note. E 7th-fret harmonic = B above E + one octave = open B string. E 5th-fret harmonic = E two octaves higher = open high E string. E 4th-fret harmonic = G# above E + two octaves = (slightly flatter than) open E string, 4th fret. You can do the same things with all of the strings. Look at the above and make the following replacements: With E, the notes are already listed as E, B, and G#. With A, replace those notes with A, E, and C#. With D, replace those notes with D, A, and F#. With G, replace those notes with G, D, and B. With B, replace those notes with B, F#, and D#. You'll observe that these are the notes that make up a major triad. E major = E, G#, B; A major = A, C#, E; etc. * Physics sidebar: You've divided the string into four equal parts, so the vibrating length is 1/4th as long, so the frequency is 4x as high. Multiplying by 2 gets you to one octave, and multiplying by 2 again gets you an octave higher than that. ** Sidebar 2: It's actually slightly flatter than your major third -- but that's actually good, because it's more in-tune than the fretted note would be. If anyone cares, I'll explain why. The real thing to know is that it would slightly clash with the equivalent fretted note.

[@brandonacker]

Tickets now available for my next masterclass! arpeggiato.com/events/

[@CatsPajamas23]

Nice to see you back on KZbin. Very good video. Without harmonics I would probably need an electric tuner.

[@changzed9853]

Sir does guitar action matters? Mine's not too high but not low either.

[@urwholefamilydied]

Are you going to be doing any live shows soon??

[@NoahfromEarth]

You really are an awesome teacher.

[@pedrojunior2298]

No exagerating, you just changed my life. I ahve never learned this tecnique, and you just made me able to in 20 minutes. You have a gift. Thank you very much.

[@owynpham1478]

The way he beams at the end of instructions shows how much love and passion he had for his art

[@Momo-bb2fn]

Everyone LOVED it when you played Gymnopedie No.1 on Scallon's expensive guitars video!

[@juddery]

Wow, thank you so much. I've tried to learn harmonics on the guitar so many times, but have never managed it even slightly. After watching your video, I went straight to my guitar and was able to do it almost immediately! It's actually quite easy when you know how. The key for me was the lightness of touch, barely touching the string. On previous attempts I'd been applying way to much pressure. 😁

[@gypsydavy708]

I've played guitar all my life and have never done these advanced harmonics. Thanks for explaining so clearly.

[@vincentdinatale6962]

A very clear explanation of EXACTLY how it’s done!

[@abena7810]

This man seems genuinely humble! Goodness I love him!

[@TravissBr]

I can already do this but this video is very calming so I’ll stay

[@wesleydabes9107]

This absolutely blew my mind!!! Never has it occurred to me in my 10+ years of guitar playing that this was possible! Even after lightly learning about the science behind harmonics! Thank you so much for sharing!

[@Rodrigo-qd7by]

When you talk is like you are so peaceful, that I can watch your videos just to relax myself

[@TinOrcen]

Maaaaann, you helped me so much! I've searched for this explainations for so long! I was seeing this as one of the most difficult things to play at guitar and you made this clear and easy to understand. My playing is going to improve for sure now! You're a hero :D Shout out to your work, count me as one of your patrons ;)

[@Xen0Phanes]

Heard the first 2 notes in the intro and clicked the LIKE Thank you for sharing your talents.

[@mat_tee]

Honestly I just don't know what to say now. For many years I have been struggling to create something similar to harmonics to no avail. One of your video was enough to make it happen. Thank you so much!

[@ECHOISME.ECHOISME]

My world just got a wholle lot wider. The technic no one tells you about that you figure out by yourself but changes everything

[@zunfdo]

This was absolute gold: informative, illuminating, stimulating! Thanks a lot, Brandon!

[@altaee123]

Thanks for explaining the technique very clearly, where others failed to explain.

[@memeteme99]

Wow, thank you. 20 minutes and I was invested the whole way through

[@Trooman20]

i love how you are talking while playing that's very impressive not to mention your wonderful skills

[@fibwick6275]

I was just struggling with this yesterday! You have impeccable timing

[@zpjd5732]

Your videos are so helpful & you're such a good teacher. You have a way of explaining things so that a beginner, intermediate or expert player is sure to learn something all in each sentence. Keep it up!

[@TheLordMarty]

Ooh, so THIS is how you play the Roundabout (To be continued song) intro... Great tutorial as always, thank you Brandon!

[@una_10bananas]

Not me having no stringed instruments only a flute but still enjoying this whole video and feeling like I'm learning

[@batitoloco4507]

after a year, i finally got the hang of it. thank you very much. it took me a year but this is so freaking cool!!!!!

[@borgan1964]

I just wanne say,,,,you are just the moust calm and relaxed teacher in this universe❤️

[@jimc7274]

I couldnt find a guitar book that explain harmonics in such clear n practical ways as brandon has done here. thanks

[@gehirndoper]

Your style of teaching and videos is simply marvellous.

[@lgst1000]

ooooooh, that's nice! the joy of discovering something new in music... i just catch myself smiling away every time. Thanks Brandon

[@andreixxl7465]

I played harmonics for years and I didn't know about artificial harmonics. It's such a magical sound! Thank you!

[@yoanncharpiot4778]

Brilliant!! I am playing guitar for years but I never understood the way to make harmonic. Your explanation are so crystal clear that now I can play it quite easily. Many thanks, you have a new subscriber now ;)

[@jackarcher8874]

I have been wanting to learn harmonics ever since I first heard them performed. I’m a beginner/intermediate player and this is the first video that explained harmonics in a way I could understand and actually achieve right on the spot! Thank you! I’m subscribing to your channel now😉

[@kaiserjoe2316]

Just watched the Steve Morse interview on Rick Beato's channel and had to find out how to do it. Just like Steve, you make it look so easy but also make it an accessible technique with your presentation. Thank you!

[@KingfisherLtd]

This is a really interesting guitar lesson and cozy asmr at the same time. Your voice is like a melted gold.

[@turunendin2925]

The quality, amen.... More videos please Brandon

[@lincolnmicrophonellc]

Insightful and amazingly therapeutic. Was just thinking how you turned the guitar into an almost harp then you mentioned it. Might check out the patreon.

[@nicolaspalacios7083]

This is pure gold!

[@lukaspechar]

Absolute gem of a video. I've played the guitar for years now but never actually fully grasped the concept of harmonics played with fingers only. Off to practice...

[@slashclash21bharat]

TRULY BEAUTIFUL! The Delicate touch is just phenomenal. You indeed are amazing.

[@fabiandebeer405]

Brilliant and clear instructions on harmonics. Many thanks!

[@worstedset9786]

Great tips. I've been playing harmonics for maybe half a year, and discovered by accident that playing near the bridge for them sounds different.

[@lolin6375]

Nice Tutorial playing guitar like 9 monzhs and today I watched this video and now I can play the artifical harmonics

[@pcchau20]

Oh dear Lord, help me. Your videos are so fascinating that I could watch them all day long.

[@callsignstatic6872]

A great rock song with beautiful Harmonics is called "Women In Love" by Early Early Van Halen ---of of Van Halen II I think 1979 was the year.

[@backyardblacksmith3090]

That guitar's tone is incredible

[@ChaosPootato]

The center of the 3rd fret on lower strings give an excellent harmonic on distorted guitar

[@Clawbbq]

I love the smug smile when you nail it. Great lesson. Thank you :)

[@ToastyPatchey]

Best video about Harmonics on KZbin.

[@JoshGUITARofolo]

Killer tutorial, my man!

[@spencer5914]

Thank you for uploading this. Been playing a long time but other than the 'normal' harmonics I've never really experimented with them, especially playing them using the right hand only. You are a fab teacher and your manner is infectious, keep it up :)

[@steveowens398]

This was an excellent explanation of artificial harmonics. I picked these up by watching other players use them, but this clear explanation of the physical process helps a great deal. Thanks!

[@ricardodelrey6419]

I truly enjoy the way you instruct these techniques. You have reignited my passion to learn guitar. Thank you and continue to bring the gift of music.

[@flfl3969]

Best lesson on harmonics I have ever seen. Great job!

[@misterellaneous]

This man is the Mr. Rogers of guitar

[@popcornpotatoo]

Im a simple person, I see Brandon, I press like button.

[@alicamgibbs1867]

This is such a cool technique. I've used basic harmonics in some of my compositions but this takes it to another level. Thanks Brandon.

[@victorrubahimbya1124]

YOU have SAVED my Life by sharing this knowledge 🙏

[@coryshinn5764]

These techniques are really fun and harmonically suited for open tunings as well

[@herrunsinn774]

I have often thought that the term "artificial harmonic" is a bit of a misnomer, as there really isn't anything "unnatural" about them. Still, we have to call them something and calling them "pretty much the same as a natural harmonic but just a bit trickier to execute" is a little wordy. Hee hee. 😅 😂 🤣 Years ago, I figured out how to play (these so-called) artificial harmonics myself and happened to choose the thumb-pluck method. That served me well but I did notice (as you pointed out) that my thumb was then not available for plucking other notes. I then began practicing the ring-finger pluck. Now (just as a short exercise), I like to play a little "harmonic dance", and switch back and forth, plucking the notes once with the thumb, then again with the ring finger. This gives me two arrows in my quiver of harmonics instead of just one. (More arrows are always a good thing.) Finally, in defense of the thumb-pluck technique, I have noticed that I can get a much stronger "power harmonic" (Wow... did I just invent a term?) pluck with my thumb, so I occasionally still use that when I want a really strong pluck. Great video, as usual, Brandon. Even if I might already be somewhat proficient in some of the techniques you demonstrate, I always come away from your videos having learned a little something new. Keep up the good work! 😇

[@tonytlly]

So ready to try this! Thank you sir!

[@kristalind7313]

Just very complex and best lesson on harmonics I have seen. You are outstanding teacher and play incredibly well too! How can somebody be so perfect :)? Yesterday the harmonics seemed like black magic, today I can do it !!!!!

[@kristadzive]

Using the soft tip of the fingertip changes everything!! I really didnt know that, I thought all that matters is how precisely you find the spot and how quickly you get the finger away from the string after the harmonic starts ringing, I knew there was something missing I could not quite put my finger on it ,but THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING!!! Also, I think steelstring players use the thumb, because it is the same position, which you would use if you are using a pick, which makes the sound stronger and more pronounced easier(just like nails). I also wanted to say that that position is less awkward when you are holding a pick, but I just tried that and realised that using the ring finger is way better(for me), but most steelestring players dont use their ring finger at all (if they are not REALLY into some advanced fingerstyle)+ why would you not use a pick if you already have one in hand..

[@rm5700]

Wow! Thanks for the in-depth explanation!

[@meuptemeuptee7994]

Fantastic video with great production. Thank you

[@ZaThrint]

Another more advanced technique is being able to play harmonics past the highest fret, essentially reaching a note range normally not accessible. This concept gets even more experimental when it comes to fretless instruments.

[@carolas.2284]

I still am struggling on the artificial harmonics of El testament d' Amelia. Thanks for this video, it encouraged me to be more thoughtful while exercising. It looks so easy to you.

[@haijyvelho]

Thanks a bunch. It seems I immediately learned a much better technique after watching this, than I had before.

[@cordero6960]

dang i actually learn this skill i thought impossible...Thanks Brandon!

[@isaacness2647]

what a nice trick, the best is that you can play stuff that you already know and give a twist!

[@niundisponible]

I am learning Tango en Skai and harmonics was a lot in my mind. Thank you for bringing this up!

[@brandonacker]

💥My new online guitar course is open! classicalguitar-pro.com Sign-up for lifetime access to this 6-hour course and start playing elegant classical music today!

[@valezanoanjheti3749]

Thank You B !!!

[@seanandben]

Hi Brandon. I'm primarily a classic rock/blues electric guitarist, and I keep my fingernails short on both hands. I "hybrid pick" a lot of things, but not at the speed the great country players do! Is it possible to play classical guitar properly using just the flesh of my picking hand? I thoroughly enjoy your channel and playing by the way!

[@MegaStrega]

Give Tim henson a guitar lesson for a video

[@dumpsterjoe556]

That’s some incredible stuff!

[@bigalexg]

Love your playing Brandon. And your perspective. You are a true master.

[@irakliromanchenko8569]

i was learning in musical school for 7 year and always wondered what that sound was only knew normal harmonics 12 7 5 imagine my reaction when i hit that note 1 time thank you for that

[@victorradulescot6865]

@06’02’´, Brandon you actually found the G harmonic point! Congrats and what a lucky guitar you have!! Hope she is aware of that!😉

[@2945antonio]

Thank you, Brandon, for the Master Class on harmonics. It was most kind of you to share your tips with your viewers. Truly appreciated..

[@hamonuser4219]

OMG Thank you so much. This video was very helpful !

[@maxin7036]

Im really happy to learnd harmonics you really helped me bro i love you

[@bruno_523]

Amazing! A new skill I didn't know I could develop. Trying it out, I found it quite hard to actually keep my index straight enough to make the harmonic, and at the same time, maintaining my hand "round" to be able to pluck the string. Man you do make it look easy!

[@lmbcompany1576]

You are awesome and I wanna really thank you for the video which is the best out there.Keep rollin!

[@emorydelacruz5169]

Thanks for this harmonics lesson!

[@SKYGUY1]

Thanx for the instruction. You made the lesson very clear.

[@francoisriant6187]

Many thanks From Toulouse for this video ! I dont have a teacher, but i have your videos !

[@jamesmccann3630]

Thank you so much for this. I’ve really struggled to understand right hand harmonics. I have something new to practice.

[@mbeyvincent]

Best harmonic tutorial ever!

[@thomashenry3284]

Thank you for this great lesson in Harmonics Brandon! ❤️🥰

[@indrajitbanerjeeguitar5675]

Beautiful and Very helpful,mainly the right hand harmonics technique., thnk very much..

[@OwnedRules]

everyone's talking about how cool harmonics is, but me... thinking about a peaceful and soothing his voice's

[@peacefulnights2766]

This is so cool. He is by far the best guitar teacher on youtube out there. He is very precise and helpful

[@illuminaticonfirmed4650]

I love how detailed and indepth all his videos are and sooo easy to follow, would really love if you did a tutorial on arpeggios

[@finneh6145]

This is an amazing lesson in and of itself, but it also makes me appreciate the design of the guitar as an instrument even more. It had hundreds of years to develop to this point, but still. The range of possibilities we have with a few strings tied to a box is simply outstanding! And what's even more, the design of the fret distances makes octaves and harmonics super easy to learn and understand.