Guide To Harmonics 3



Natural Harmonics: G#

By dividing the string length of the bottom E string into 5 parts we can get the note G#.

These 5th divisions occur at fret 4 , fret 9 and fret 16 - all these positions give exactly the same harmonic [ G# 4 ] - there is also one at the 4/5ths position ( not shown above but halfway between fret 16 and the saddle )

By subdividing to a 10th of string length you might be able to squeeze out a G# 5 ( an octave higher ) harmonic just below the 2nd fret [ halfway between the nut and 4th fret ]

You should not expect these harmonics to be perfectly in tune with a fretted G# note nor should you use any of these harmonics for tuning purposes.

The first three natural harmonics make an E major triad E - B - G#.

Go on to the next lesson for more Natural Harmonics