Natural Harmonics
Author: Jimi Savage12th, 7th & 5th Frets
The easiest harmonics to produce are positioned at the 12th, 7th and 5th frets. The notes from the fundamental note being the open string are as follows:
12th = root 8va
7th = perfect 5th 8va
5th = root l5va
| 1st string | 12th fret = E | 7th fret = B | 5th fret = E | |||
| 2nd string | 12th fret = B | 7th fret = F# | 5th fret = B | |||
| 3rd string | 12th fret = G | 7th fret = D | 5th fret = G | |||
| 4th string | 12th fret = D | 7th fret = A | 5th fret = D | |||
| 5th string | 12th fret = A | 7th fret = E | 5th fret = A | |||
| 6th string | 12th fret = E | 7th fret = B | 5th fret = E |
4th & 9th Frets
Upon the 4th & 9th frets the 3rd degree is heard from the open fundamental note. To be precise it's actually at major 17th but it's easier to think of it as the major 3rd from the open string you are playing on.
| 1st string | = | 4th & 9th Fret | = | G#/Ab |
| 2nd string | = | 4th & 9th Fret | = | D#/Eb |
| 3rd string | = | 4th & 9th Fret | = | B/Ab |
| 4th string | = | 4th & 9th Fret | = | F#/Gb |
| 5th string | = | 4th & 9th Fret | = | C#/Db |
| 6th string | = | 4th & 9th Fret | = | G#/Ab |
Other Frets
| 12th Fret | = | Root |
| 9th Fret | = | maj 3rd |
| 7th Fret | = | per 5th |
| 6th Fret | = | b7th (just before 6th Fret 5:9) |
| 5th Fret | = | Root |
| 4th Fret | = | maj 3rd |
| 3:2 Fret | = | per 5th |
| 2:8 Fret | = | b7th |
| 2:3 Fret | = | Root |
| 2:0 Fret | = | maj 9th |
| 1:5 Fret | = | #4/11th |
Chords Using Harmonics
An interesting way to play harmonics is within a chord structure. To do this, you need to visualise the chord shape you wish to play an octave above where you fret, or 12 frets higher than it is. Next, you take the index finger of your picking hand, place it over a single note within the chord structure, and pick the same string with your little finger. You will have to hold the plectrum between your 2nd finger and thumb, to free your index finger. If done properly, you should hear the note ring out clearly, an octave above the original pitch. If you pick each note from the chord structure whilst letting the others ring, you will hear the same chord tone, but an octave above its pitch. Make sure that you place the tip of your index finger exactly above the actual fret, and not in between the frets.
Scales Using Harmonics
Similarly, when using harmonics in a scale, you need to visualise the structure an octave above its original pitch. Then, use the index finger of your picking hand to repeat it.
Fretted Harmonics
Play a fretted note below the 5th fret and with your picking hand point to the fret the is 12 frets higher than the note you are playing on the same string. Touch the string at this point and pluck the string with your little finger to produce a natural harmonic from the fretted note.
Tapped harmonics
These are produced in the same manner of the fretted harmonic but this time you tap the fret that's 12 frets above the note you are playing. You can get other tapped harmonics by using the harmonic map. Remember
that the fundamental note will be the one your fretboard hand is playing.
Pinched Harmonics
Pinched harmonics are produced with the technique of the pick or plectrum. See Pinched Harmonics P97.
Harmonic Map
Over the page you will find a map of all the natural harmonics on a string. To sound these notes you must gently lay your fingertip where indicated on the map and pick the string firmly, near the bridge for best effect.
Images
docs/score/natural harmonics 1.pdf
