8 String Guitar Learning: Tips and Tricks for Beginners

What is an 8 String Guitar?

An 8 string guitar is a variant of the traditional 6 string guitar, which has two additional strings. These extra strings are usually added below the lowest E string and above the highest E string, providing the player with a wider range of notes and a richer, fuller sound. The instrument is widely used in heavy metal and progressive rock music, as it allows for complex chord progressions and intricate finger picking patterns.

Getting Started: Choosing the Right Guitar

Before you start learning to play an 8 string guitar, it’s important to choose the right instrument that suits your playing style and skill level. There are several factors to consider when selecting a guitar, such as the guitar’s body type, neck profile, and scale length. You should also consider the guitar’s price range, as 8 string guitars can be expensive compared to traditional 6 string models.

Basics of Playing an 8 String Guitar

Once you have selected the right guitar, it’s time to start learning the basics of playing an 8 string guitar. The first step is to get familiar with the tuning of the instrument, which is usually tuned to the notes F# B E A D G B E. This tuning allows for a wide range of notes and chords, but can be challenging for beginners to get used to.

To get started, it’s important to practice the basic chords and scales, such as the major and minor scales, and the dominant 7th and diminished chords. You should also practice fingerpicking techniques, palm muting, and alternate picking to improve your overall playing ability.

Advanced Techniques: Tips and Tricks

Once you have mastered the basics, it’s time to move on to advanced techniques to take your playing to the next level. One of the best ways to improve your playing is to use a metronome to practice playing in time and to develop precise timing. You should also practice playing arpeggios and sweep picking techniques to improve your fingerpicking speed and accuracy.

Another important technique is to use proper muting techniques to eliminate unwanted noise and feedback. This can be achieved by using palm muting or fretting hand muting to selectively silence notes and strings.

Conclusion

Learning to play an 8 string guitar can be a challenging but rewarding experience for beginners. By selecting the right guitar, practicing the basics, and using advanced techniques, you can master this unique instrument and take your playing to the next level. With persistence and dedication, you can become a skilled 8 string guitarist capable of creating complex chord progressions, intricate fingerpicking patterns, and rich, full sounds that will captivate your audience.