Playing guitar like drums can unlock a whole new dimension of rhythm and expression in your playing, and at guitarplayers.net, we’re here to guide you through every step of the journey; so this article will explore how to translate your drumming skills to the fretboard, covering alternate tunings, rhythmic approaches, and the use of a pick as a drumstick. With the right mindset and techniques, you can start creating intricate and captivating rhythms on the guitar.
1. Understanding the Connection: Guitar and Drums
The guitar and drums, while seemingly distinct, share a fundamental connection rooted in rhythm. Playing guitar to drums taps into this rhythmic relationship, allowing guitarists to approach their instrument with a drummer’s mindset.
1.1 Why Think of the Guitar as a Drum Set?
Thinking of the guitar as a drum set opens up exciting possibilities for rhythmic exploration and creativity. According to a 2018 study by the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music, viewing the guitar through a percussive lens can enhance a player’s understanding of rhythm and timing, leading to more dynamic and engaging performances. It encourages guitarists to focus on the rhythmic aspects of their playing, translating drumming techniques to the fretboard. Here’s how:
- Accents: Low notes become bass drum strokes, providing a solid foundation.
- High Notes: High notes emulate snare drum hits, adding crispness and definition.
- In-Between Strokes: Quieter strokes resemble hi-hat patterns, creating subtle textures.
Guitarist playing with a pick
1.2 What are the Benefits of this Approach?
Approaching the guitar with a drummer’s mindset offers numerous benefits for guitarists of all levels:
- Enhanced Rhythm: Develop a deeper understanding of rhythm and timing.
- Increased Creativity: Explore new rhythmic patterns and textures.
- Improved Coordination: Enhance coordination between your hands.
- Unique Sound: Create a distinctive and percussive guitar style.
- Versatility: Apply this approach to various musical genres.
1.3 How to Visualize the Fretboard as a Percussive Instrument
To truly play the guitar like a drum, it’s essential to visualize the fretboard as a percussive instrument. This involves:
- Mapping Drum Sounds: Assigning different drum sounds to specific areas of the fretboard.
- Experimenting with Textures: Exploring various strumming and picking techniques to create different textures.
- Focusing on Dynamics: Varying the intensity of your playing to create dynamic contrast.
- Utilizing Percussive Techniques: Incorporating techniques like palm muting, body percussion, and string slaps to add percussive elements to your playing.
2. Alternate Tunings: A Gateway to Rhythmic Freedom
Alternate tunings can revolutionize your guitar playing by offering new chord voicings, melodic possibilities, and rhythmic textures. DADGAD tuning, in particular, is a popular choice for its open sound and ease of use.
2.1 What is DADGAD Tuning?
DADGAD tuning is an alternate tuning for the guitar where the strings are tuned to D, A, D, G, A, and D, from lowest to highest. This tuning creates an open Dsus4 chord, offering a rich and resonant sound.
2.2 How does DADGAD Tuning Simplify Chord Shapes?
DADGAD tuning simplifies chord shapes by allowing you to play many common chords with just one or two fingers. This frees up your left hand to focus on rhythmic variations and embellishments. For example, a D chord can be played by simply barring the fifth fret of the top five strings.
2.3 Other Alternate Tunings to Explore
While DADGAD is a great starting point, numerous other alternate tunings can open up new rhythmic possibilities:
- Open D (DADF#AD): Creates a major chord with the open strings, ideal for blues and slide guitar.
- Open G (DGDGBD): Another popular open tuning, well-suited for fingerstyle and slide playing.
- Drop D (DADGBE): Lowers the sixth string to D, creating a powerful and resonant sound.
- CGCGCD: Creates a very open and resonant sound.
Diagram of DADGAD tuning
3. The Pick as a Drumstick: Unleashing Rhythmic Potential
Using a pick as a drumstick allows you to translate your drumming skills directly to the guitar. By focusing on rhythmic patterns and dynamics, you can create a percussive and engaging guitar style.
3.1 Choosing the Right Pick
The type of pick you use can significantly impact your tone and playing style. Experiment with different materials, shapes, and thicknesses to find the pick that best suits your drumming-inspired approach. Thicker picks generally provide a more solid and defined sound, while thinner picks offer greater flexibility and responsiveness.
3.2 Mastering Downstrokes and Upstrokes
Downstrokes and upstrokes are the foundation of rhythmic guitar playing. Practice alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes to create various rhythmic patterns. Focus on maintaining a consistent tempo and dynamic control.
3.3 Exploring Different Strumming Patterns
Experiment with different strumming patterns to create various rhythmic textures. Try combining downstrokes, upstrokes, and muted strokes to add complexity and depth to your playing.
3.4 Muting Techniques for Percussive Effects
Muting techniques, such as palm muting and finger muting, can add percussive elements to your guitar playing. Palm muting involves resting the side of your palm on the strings near the bridge to create a dampened, percussive sound. Finger muting involves using your fretting hand fingers to lightly dampen the strings, creating a similar effect.
4. Rhythmic Exercises and Techniques
To effectively play the guitar like a drum, it’s essential to incorporate specific rhythmic exercises and techniques into your practice routine.
4.1 Practicing Basic Drum Rhythms on Guitar
Start by translating basic drum rhythms to the guitar. For example, try playing a simple rock beat (bass drum on beats 1 and 3, snare drum on beats 2 and 4) using downstrokes for the bass drum and upstrokes for the snare drum.
4.2 Syncopation and Off-Beat Rhythms
Syncopation involves emphasizing off-beat rhythms, creating a sense of groove and excitement. Practice playing syncopated rhythms on the guitar by accenting notes that fall between the main beats.
4.3 Polyrhythms: Layering Different Rhythms
Polyrhythms involve layering different rhythms on top of each other, creating complex and intriguing textures. Try playing a simple rhythm with your strumming hand while simultaneously tapping out a different rhythm on the body of the guitar.
4.4 Incorporating Ghost Notes and Accents
Ghost notes are subtle, barely audible notes that add a sense of groove and nuance to your playing. Accents are emphasized notes that create dynamic contrast and rhythmic interest. Practice incorporating ghost notes and accents into your playing to add depth and complexity.
5. Applying Drumming Concepts to Guitar Playing
To truly play the guitar like a drum, it’s essential to apply drumming concepts to your guitar playing.
5.1 Thinking in Terms of Drum Fills and Grooves
Think of your guitar playing in terms of drum fills and grooves. A drum fill is a short, rhythmic passage that breaks up the main groove, adding excitement and variation. Practice incorporating drum fills and grooves into your guitar playing to create a more dynamic and engaging performance.
5.2 Using Dynamics to Create Contrast and Expression
Dynamics, the variation in volume, are essential for creating contrast and expression in your playing. Experiment with different dynamic levels to create a sense of tension and release, adding depth and emotion to your music.
5.3 Developing a Strong Sense of Timing and Groove
A strong sense of timing and groove is crucial for playing the guitar like a drum. Practice playing with a metronome to develop your timing, and focus on locking in with the rhythm to create a solid and infectious groove.
6. Gear and Equipment for Drum-Like Guitar
While your technique is the most important factor in playing guitar like drums, certain gear and equipment can enhance your sound and playing experience.
6.1 Acoustic vs. Electric Guitar
Both acoustic and electric guitars can be used to play drum-like rhythms. Acoustic guitars offer a natural, percussive sound, while electric guitars provide greater versatility and control over your tone.
6.2 Pickups and Amplifiers
If you’re playing an electric guitar, the pickups and amplifier you use can significantly impact your sound. Experiment with different pickups and amps to find the combination that best suits your desired tone.
6.3 Effects Pedals
Effects pedals, such as distortion, delay, and reverb, can add unique textures and colors to your drum-like guitar playing. Experiment with different effects pedals to create a wide range of sounds.
6.4 Percussion Accessories
Consider adding percussion accessories to your setup, such as a tambourine or shaker, to further enhance the percussive elements of your playing.
7. Examples of Guitarists Who Play Like Drummers
Many guitarists have successfully incorporated drumming techniques into their playing, creating unique and innovative styles.
7.1 Dave Isaacs
Dave Isaacs is a renowned guitarist and educator known for his percussive approach to the instrument. He often uses his guitar to emulate drum patterns and create intricate rhythmic textures.
7.2 Preston Reed
Preston Reed is a master of percussive guitar playing, incorporating techniques like body percussion, string slaps, and alternate tunings to create a full and dynamic sound.
7.3 Michael Hedges
Michael Hedges was a pioneering guitarist known for his innovative use of harmonics, alternate tunings, and percussive techniques.
7.4 Kaki King
Kaki King is a contemporary guitarist who blends fingerstyle techniques with percussive elements, creating a unique and captivating sound.
8. Tips for Practicing and Improving
To effectively play the guitar like a drum, it’s essential to practice consistently and focus on specific areas for improvement.
8.1 Setting Realistic Goals
Set realistic goals for your practice sessions, focusing on one or two specific techniques or rhythms at a time.
8.2 Breaking Down Complex Rhythms
Break down complex rhythms into smaller, more manageable parts. Practice each part separately before combining them.
8.3 Recording Yourself and Analyzing Your Playing
Record yourself playing and analyze your playing to identify areas for improvement. Pay attention to your timing, dynamics, and overall sound.
8.4 Seeking Feedback from Other Musicians
Seek feedback from other musicians, particularly drummers, to get their insights on your rhythmic approach and technique.
9. Incorporating Drum-Like Guitar into Your Music
Once you’ve developed a solid foundation in drum-like guitar techniques, it’s time to incorporate them into your music.
9.1 Adding Rhythmic Variation to Your Songs
Use drum-like guitar techniques to add rhythmic variation to your songs, creating a more dynamic and engaging listening experience.
9.2 Creating Unique Textures and Soundscapes
Experiment with different percussive techniques and effects to create unique textures and soundscapes.
9.3 Collaborating with Drummers and Percussionists
Collaborate with drummers and percussionists to create a rich and layered rhythmic foundation for your music.
9.4 Performing Live with Drum-Like Guitar
Incorporate drum-like guitar techniques into your live performances to create a captivating and energetic show.
10. Resources for Learning More
Numerous resources are available to help you learn more about playing the guitar like a drum.
10.1 Online Lessons and Tutorials
Online lessons and tutorials offer a wealth of information on various drum-like guitar techniques and styles.
10.2 Books and Instructional Materials
Books and instructional materials can provide in-depth knowledge and guidance on specific techniques and concepts.
10.3 Guitar Communities and Forums
Guitar communities and forums offer a platform for connecting with other guitarists, sharing ideas, and asking questions.
10.4 Guitar Teachers and Instructors
Working with a guitar teacher or instructor can provide personalized guidance and feedback, helping you progress more quickly.
11. The Role of Guitarplayers.net in Your Musical Journey
At guitarplayers.net, we are dedicated to providing you with the resources and support you need to excel in your musical journey. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, our website offers a wealth of information on guitar techniques, gear, and music theory.
11.1 Explore Lessons and Tutorials
Access a wide range of lessons and tutorials covering various guitar techniques, including those related to playing guitar like drums. Learn from experienced instructors and enhance your skills.
11.2 Discover Gear Reviews and Recommendations
Make informed decisions about your gear with our comprehensive reviews and recommendations. Find the perfect guitar, amp, or effects pedal to suit your needs and budget.
11.3 Find Sheet Music and Tabs
Expand your repertoire with our extensive collection of sheet music and tabs. Discover new songs and learn to play your favorite tunes.
11.4 Join Our Thriving Community
Connect with fellow guitar enthusiasts in our vibrant online community. Share your experiences, ask questions, and collaborate with other musicians.
12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
12.1 Is it difficult to learn how to play guitar like drums?
It can be challenging initially, but with consistent practice and the right approach, anyone can learn to incorporate drum-like techniques into their guitar playing.
12.2 What are the best alternate tunings for playing guitar like drums?
DADGAD, Open D, and Open G are popular choices for their open sound and ease of use.
12.3 What type of pick is best for percussive guitar playing?
Thicker picks generally provide a more solid and defined sound, while thinner picks offer greater flexibility and responsiveness. Experiment to find the pick that best suits your style.
12.4 Can I play guitar like drums on an acoustic guitar?
Yes, both acoustic and electric guitars can be used to play drum-like rhythms. Acoustic guitars offer a natural, percussive sound.
12.5 What are some essential techniques for playing guitar like drums?
Downstrokes, upstrokes, muted strokes, syncopation, and polyrhythms are all essential techniques.
12.6 How can I improve my timing and groove when playing guitar like drums?
Practice with a metronome and focus on locking in with the rhythm to develop a solid and infectious groove.
12.7 Are there any guitarists who are known for playing like drummers?
Yes, Dave Isaacs, Preston Reed, Michael Hedges, and Kaki King are all renowned for their percussive approach to the guitar.
12.8 What are some good resources for learning more about playing guitar like drums?
Online lessons and tutorials, books and instructional materials, guitar communities and forums, and guitar teachers and instructors are all valuable resources.
12.9 How can I incorporate drum-like guitar into my songs?
Use drum-like guitar techniques to add rhythmic variation, create unique textures, and collaborate with drummers and percussionists.
12.10 What is the difference between palm muting and finger muting?
Palm muting involves resting the side of your palm on the strings near the bridge, while finger muting involves using your fretting hand fingers to lightly dampen the strings.
Conclusion
Playing the guitar like drums opens up a world of rhythmic possibilities and creative expression. By understanding the connection between guitar and drums, exploring alternate tunings, mastering the pick as a drumstick, and incorporating specific techniques and exercises into your practice routine, you can unlock a new dimension of your playing. Remember to visit guitarplayers.net for more lessons, reviews, sheet music, and community support. Unleash your rhythmic potential and embark on a musical journey that knows no bounds!
Ready to take your guitar playing to the next level? Visit guitarplayers.net today to discover a wealth of resources, connect with a thriving community, and unlock your full potential as a guitarist. Whether you’re looking for lessons, gear reviews, sheet music, or a place to connect with fellow musicians, guitarplayers.net has everything you need to succeed. Don’t wait, start your journey today! You can reach us at 1140 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215, United States or call us at +1 (617) 747-2261.
