One of the primary legato techniques all guitarists must
learn is the hammer-on, pull-off. This technique is important
because it allows for nuances in tone and expression, and
it allows the picking hand a "break" since it does not have
to pick the notes on the hammer-on or the pull-off. This results
in a faster progression of notes, sometimes called licks.
The hammer-on is accomplished when you pick a note and then
using another finger hammer down on the same string. The sound
of the hammered note is less pronounced than the picked note.
For example place your first finger on the 5th fret of the
3rd string, and the hammer down your third finger on the 7th
fret of the 3rd string. Don't use your just quickly strike
the second fret position with the tip of your 3rd finger.
This would be described in guitar tab as 5h7 or 5 hammer 7.
Keep your first finger on the 5th fret because you are going
to pull-off of the 7th fret in the next example.
The pull-off results when you release a plucked note with
enough force such that the second fretted note rings. This
may require a slight side way motion to create enough friction
to cause the string to ring out. The sound of the pulled-off
note is less pronounced since you aren't using your pick to
create it. This would be illustrated in guitar tab 7p5 or
7 pull 5.
If you combine these techniques you can create very fast
note runs or licks. Imagine how this sequence of hammer-on,
pull-off's would sound when played very quickly 5h7p5h7p5.
In deed the hammer-on, pull-off technique is the cornerstone
for legato and most speed playing techniques.
It takes time to perfect the technique but it is worth the
effort.
About the author: Bill McRea is the publisher of www.guitarwarehouse.com
and www.kansasfans.com
