The invention and evolution of the harp guitar are both interesting. Luthiers came up with this unique instrument to address the missing bass sound from the traditional guitar, and it lived its glorious time until it declined for a brief period and rose back to fame in the late 20th century. Now that it has come back in the music scene again, new generation musicians have found it an interesting instrument that adds quality and a great score to their performances.
Though it has certain complexities when it comes to playability, the distinctive sound it produces adds a unique element to the musical performance. If you have recently discovered its existence and taken up playing it, there are certain playing techniques you should definitely master if you want to become a pro.
Open Bass String
The harp guitar has extra open strings, which is also its distinctive and defining feature, and when you want to become a master of the instrument, you must learn the right way to incorporate these strings because it adds depth to the music and elevates the overall experience. These strings are not fretted on the guitar; it becomes essential to learn the right timing and accuracy of playing them at the right moment.
Fingerstyle
Of all the playing techniques, fingerstyle is the most amusing and distinctive one of the harp guitars. Going beyond strumming, fingerstyle gives the players precise control over every string individually, which allows them to strike to produce different types of melodies, rhythms, harmonies, and even complex arrangements. But to play fingerstyle, you must develop strong coordination between fingers and thumb so you can switch between them and do smooth transitions.
Independent Thumb Bass Technique
When mastering the art of playing the guitar harp, it is essential that you learn the independent thumb bass technique. In this, the thumb is used to pluck the lower bass strings and maintains the steady bass rhythm while the fingers are used to play melody and chords. With this technique, players can produce a self-accompanied sound with no need of additional instruments, but the technique needs coordination and practice.
Two-Handed Techniques
If you have become a little aware and are at a stage of more than just a beginner, it is time that you learn two-handed techniques on the harp guitar. In this technique, players are required to use both hands often on the fretboard as well as extended strings. The techniques require tapping, and the right hand presses the notes on the fretboard while the left hand is engaged in managing the bass chords. This technique expands the range of the instrument and produces piano like arrangement.
Playing the harp guitar requires more knowledge and better coordination than the regular guitar because of having extra strings. If you are already invested in playing the instrument, it is time you master certain techniques that help produce better sound and music that require no additional instruments. Though there are a lot of techniques to play the harp guitar, we have discussed the most common and essential ones.
