Playing guitar is a rewarding experience, and figuring out How To Play Guitar Upside Down can open up new possibilities for guitarists. This article explores the ins and outs of playing guitar unconventionally, offering insights and guidance for those who want to try something different. At guitarplayers.net, we’re passionate about helping guitarists of all levels discover new techniques and find the best resources to enhance their musical journey. Whether you’re just starting or have been playing for years, understanding the options available can transform your experience.
1. Understanding the Basics of Playing Guitar Upside Down
Is it possible to play guitar upside down?
Absolutely, playing guitar upside down is possible and has been successfully done by various guitarists. It involves playing a right-handed guitar as a left-handed player without restringing it. This means the high E string is at the top and the low E string is at the bottom, which reverses the standard string order. Understanding this basic reversal is the first step in deciding if this style is right for you.
1.1. What Does “Playing Upside Down” Mean?
“Playing upside down” refers to playing a right-handed guitar without reversing the strings. This means the strings are in reverse order compared to a standard left-handed guitar. The strings remain as they are on a right-handed guitar, but the player holds the guitar in a left-handed position.
1.2. Common Misconceptions
One common misconception is that playing upside down is the same as playing a left-handed guitar. A left-handed guitar is designed and strung specifically for left-handed players, with the nut and bridge properly adjusted. Playing upside down involves using a standard right-handed guitar in a left-handed orientation without any modifications to the string order or guitar setup.
1.3. Why Some Guitarists Choose This Method
Some guitarists choose this method because it can feel more natural to them. For left-handed players, fretting with their dominant hand might provide better dexterity and control. Others might find it easier to adapt to the reversed string order rather than learning to play in a standard right-handed way. Additionally, it can be a practical solution for those who have access to right-handed guitars but not left-handed ones.
2. Famous Guitarists Who Play Upside Down
Are there any famous guitarists who play guitar upside down?
Yes, there are several famous guitarists who play guitar upside down, including notable figures like Elizabeth “Libba” Cotten. Her unique playing style has inspired many and demonstrates the versatility of this approach. These musicians prove that playing guitar upside down is a viable and expressive way to create music.
2.1. Elizabeth “Libba” Cotten
Elizabeth “Libba” Cotten was a self-taught left-handed guitarist who played a right-handed guitar upside down and backwards. This meant she played the bass strings with her fingers and the melody with her thumb. Her unique fingerpicking style became her trademark, and she wrote the famous song “Freight Train.” Her approach was largely due to her being self-taught and finding what felt most natural.
2.2. Albert King
Albert King, though not strictly playing upside down, restrung his guitar for left-handed playing but kept the strings in the standard right-handed order. This resulted in a similar effect, with the thickest string on the bottom. Known for his blues playing and distinctive string bending, King’s style was heavily influenced by this unconventional setup.
2.3. Other Notable Examples
Other guitarists have experimented with or adopted this style out of necessity or personal preference. While not always widely known, their contributions highlight the diversity and adaptability within the guitar-playing community. These examples show that there is no one “right” way to approach the instrument and that personal innovation can lead to unique musical expressions.
3. Advantages of Playing Guitar Upside Down
What are the advantages of playing guitar upside down?
One of the primary advantages of playing guitar upside down is that it allows left-handed players to fret with their dominant hand, which can improve dexterity and precision. Additionally, it avoids the need to restring the guitar, making it easier to pick up and play any readily available right-handed instrument.
3.1. Dominant Hand Fretwork
For left-handed players, using their dominant hand to fret can offer a significant advantage. The dominant hand typically has better fine motor skills, which can lead to more accurate and faster chord changes. This can be especially beneficial for complex chord shapes and intricate fingerstyle playing.
3.2. No Need to Restring
Playing a right-handed guitar upside down means you don’t have to restring it. This is convenient if you often find yourself without a left-handed guitar or if you want to quickly try out different guitars without making any modifications. It also saves the cost of restringing and re-intonating the guitar.
3.3. Unique Sound and Style
The reversed string order can lead to a unique sound because the tonal qualities of the strings are different. Also, the different hand positions and techniques required can contribute to a distinct playing style that sets you apart. This uniqueness can be a great asset for developing a signature sound.
4. Disadvantages of Playing Guitar Upside Down
What are the disadvantages of playing guitar upside down?
Despite the advantages, playing guitar upside down also has several disadvantages. It can make learning from standard resources more challenging because chord diagrams and tablature will be reversed. Additionally, it might affect the intonation and overall sound quality of the guitar.
4.1. Reversed Chord Shapes and Tabs
One of the biggest challenges is that standard chord diagrams and tablature will be reversed. This means you have to mentally convert the shapes and patterns, which can slow down your learning process. It also requires a higher level of spatial reasoning to visualize the correct finger placements.
4.2. Intonation Issues
Guitars are designed with specific string gauges and tensions in mind. Playing with the strings in reverse order can affect the intonation, making it difficult to keep the guitar in tune across the fretboard. This can result in notes that sound out of tune, especially in higher positions.
4.3. Limited Learning Resources
Most learning resources, such as books, videos, and online tutorials, are designed for standard right-handed or left-handed guitars. Finding instructional materials specifically tailored to playing upside down can be challenging, which may require you to adapt existing resources or develop your own methods.
5. How to Get Started Playing Guitar Upside Down
How do I get started playing guitar upside down?
To get started playing guitar upside down, begin with a comfortable right-handed guitar and hold it in a left-handed position without changing the strings. Focus on learning basic chords and scales, and gradually adjust to the reversed string order.
5.1. Choosing the Right Guitar
Select a right-handed guitar that feels comfortable to hold and play. An electric guitar might be easier to start with due to its lighter strings and thinner neck. Ensure the guitar is in good condition with proper action and intonation before you begin.
5.2. Initial Setup and Comfort
Adjust the guitar strap to a comfortable height and angle. Practice sitting and standing to find the most ergonomic position. It’s essential to feel relaxed and balanced to avoid strain and develop good playing habits.
5.3. Basic Chords and Scales
Start with simple chords like G, C, D, and E. Practice transitioning between them smoothly. Then, learn basic scales like the pentatonic and major scales. Focus on accuracy and clean sound before increasing speed. Use online resources such as guitarplayers.net to find tutorials and diagrams to help.
5.4. Adapting to the Reversed String Order
This is the most challenging part. Spend time getting familiar with the reversed string order. Practice identifying notes on each string and visualizing chord shapes in reverse. Use mental exercises and visual aids to help internalize the new layout.
6. Essential Techniques for Upside-Down Guitar Playing
What are some essential techniques for playing guitar upside down?
Essential techniques for playing guitar upside down include mastering alternate picking patterns to accommodate the reversed string order and adapting standard chord shapes to fit the new configuration. Developing a strong sense of rhythm and timing is also crucial.
6.1. Alternate Picking
Because the string order is reversed, alternate picking becomes even more critical. Practice downstrokes and upstrokes to maintain consistent tone and attack. Experiment with different picking angles and depths to find what works best for your playing style.
6.2. Chord Shape Adaptation
You’ll need to adapt standard chord shapes to fit the reversed string order. This involves mentally flipping the chord diagrams and finding new fingerings that work. Start with basic open chords and gradually move to barre chords and more complex voicings.
6.3. Developing a Strong Sense of Rhythm
Rhythm is crucial, regardless of playing style. Practice with a metronome to develop a strong internal clock. Work on different time signatures and rhythmic patterns to improve your timing and groove.
7. Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
What are some common challenges and how do I overcome them?
Common challenges include mental adaptation to reversed chord shapes and difficulty finding suitable learning resources. Overcome these by practicing consistently, using visual aids, and creating your own learning materials tailored to your needs.
7.1. Mental Reversal of Chord Shapes
One of the biggest hurdles is the mental reversal of chord shapes. To overcome this, use visual aids like mirrored chord diagrams or create your own diagrams specifically for upside-down playing. Practice visualizing the shapes in your mind and gradually internalize them through repetition.
7.2. Finding Suitable Learning Resources
Finding resources tailored to upside-down playing can be difficult. Create your own learning materials by adapting existing resources. Mirror chord diagrams, rewrite tablature, and record yourself playing exercises. Share your resources with other upside-down players to create a community of support and shared learning.
7.3. Intonation Problems
Intonation problems can arise due to the reversed string order. Have your guitar professionally set up to minimize these issues. Adjust the bridge and nut as needed to compensate for the altered string tensions. Experiment with different string gauges to find a combination that provides better intonation.
8. Gear and Setup Considerations
What gear and setup considerations should I keep in mind?
When playing guitar upside down, consider using lighter gauge strings to compensate for the reversed string tension. Additionally, a professional setup can help optimize intonation and playability.
8.1. String Gauge
Using lighter gauge strings can help compensate for the reversed string tension. Lighter strings are easier to bend and fret, which can improve playability. Experiment with different gauges to find what feels most comfortable and provides the best tone.
8.2. Guitar Setup
A professional setup is essential for optimizing intonation and playability. Have a qualified technician adjust the bridge, nut, and truss rod to compensate for the reversed string order. This will help ensure that the guitar plays in tune and feels comfortable.
8.3. Amplifier and Effects
Experiment with different amplifiers and effects to find the sound that best complements your playing style. Reversed string order can affect the tonal qualities of the guitar, so you may need to adjust your amp settings or use different effects to achieve your desired sound.
9. Practicing Effectively
How can I practice effectively when playing guitar upside down?
Effective practice involves setting realistic goals, focusing on consistency, and breaking down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Regular practice sessions, even if short, are more beneficial than infrequent long sessions.
9.1. Setting Realistic Goals
Set achievable goals for each practice session. Focus on mastering one or two new chords, scales, or techniques at a time. Avoid trying to learn too much too quickly, as this can lead to frustration and burnout.
9.2. Consistency
Consistency is key to progress. Practice regularly, even if it’s just for 15-20 minutes each day. Regular practice helps build muscle memory and reinforces learned concepts.
9.3. Breaking Down Complex Tasks
Break down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. For example, if you’re learning a new song, start by mastering the chord progression, then work on the rhythm, and finally add the melody.
10. Finding Your Unique Style
How do I find my unique style when playing guitar upside down?
Finding your unique style involves experimenting with different techniques, listening to a variety of musical genres, and incorporating your personal influences into your playing. Embrace your individuality and let your creativity guide you.
10.1. Experimenting with Techniques
Try different techniques like fingerpicking, hybrid picking, and tapping to find what resonates with you. Don’t be afraid to push the boundaries and develop your own variations on these techniques.
10.2. Listening to Diverse Music Genres
Listen to a wide range of musical genres to broaden your musical horizons. Pay attention to the guitar playing in these genres and identify elements that you find inspiring.
10.3. Incorporating Personal Influences
Incorporate your personal influences into your playing. This could include your favorite musicians, your cultural background, or your personal experiences. Let these influences shape your style and make your playing unique.
11. Joining a Community of Guitar Players
Why should I join a community of guitar players?
Joining a community of guitar players provides opportunities for learning, sharing experiences, and receiving support from fellow musicians. It’s a great way to stay motivated and inspired.
11.1. Benefits of Online Forums
Online forums like guitarplayers.net provide a platform for guitarists to connect, ask questions, and share their knowledge. You can find valuable tips, advice, and support from experienced players.
11.2. Local Music Groups
Joining local music groups can provide opportunities to play with other musicians, learn new songs, and improve your skills. It’s also a great way to network and make new friends.
11.3. Workshops and Seminars
Attending workshops and seminars can provide valuable learning opportunities. You can learn from experienced instructors, improve your technique, and discover new approaches to playing guitar.
12. Exploring Different Genres
What are some genres to explore when playing guitar upside down?
Playing guitar upside down can be applied to various genres, including blues, rock, folk, and jazz. Experimenting with different genres can help you expand your musical vocabulary and develop your unique style.
12.1. Blues
Blues is a great genre for exploring expressive techniques like string bending, vibrato, and improvisation. The reversed string order can provide a unique tonal quality that complements the blues sound.
12.2. Rock
Rock music offers opportunities to experiment with power chords, riffs, and solos. The aggressive and energetic nature of rock can be enhanced by the unique sound and style of upside-down playing.
12.3. Folk
Folk music is well-suited for fingerpicking and storytelling. The intimate and acoustic nature of folk can be beautifully expressed through the unique fingerstyle techniques that upside-down players often develop.
12.4. Jazz
Jazz provides opportunities to explore complex chord voicings, improvisation, and sophisticated harmonies. The intellectual and improvisational nature of jazz can be a great fit for the creative and unconventional approach of upside-down playing.
13. Maintaining Your Guitar
How do I maintain my guitar properly?
Proper guitar maintenance includes regular cleaning, string changes, and periodic setups to ensure optimal playability and longevity.
13.1. Regular Cleaning
Clean your guitar regularly to remove dirt, sweat, and grime. Use a soft cloth and guitar polish to clean the body, neck, and hardware. Regular cleaning helps maintain the guitar’s finish and prevents corrosion.
13.2. String Changes
Change your strings regularly to maintain optimal tone and playability. The frequency of string changes depends on how often you play and the type of strings you use. A good rule of thumb is to change your strings every 1-3 months.
13.3. Professional Setups
Have your guitar professionally set up at least once a year to ensure it plays its best. A setup includes adjusting the action, intonation, and truss rod to optimize playability and tone.
14. Advanced Techniques and Concepts
What are some advanced techniques and concepts to explore?
Advanced techniques include alternate tunings, advanced fingerpicking patterns, and exploring complex harmonic concepts. These can help you push the boundaries of your playing and develop your unique voice.
14.1. Alternate Tunings
Experimenting with alternate tunings can open up new sonic possibilities and inspire new song ideas. Some popular alternate tunings include DADGAD, Open G, and Drop D.
14.2. Advanced Fingerpicking Patterns
Mastering advanced fingerpicking patterns can add depth and complexity to your playing. Explore different patterns, rhythms, and techniques to create intricate and engaging arrangements.
14.3. Complex Harmonic Concepts
Exploring complex harmonic concepts like modal interchange, altered chords, and advanced chord voicings can add sophistication and depth to your playing. Study jazz theory and harmony to expand your knowledge and incorporate these concepts into your playing.
15. Resources for Learning Guitar Upside Down
What resources are available for learning guitar upside down?
While specific resources may be limited, you can adapt standard learning materials, use online communities, and consider personalized instruction. Platforms like guitarplayers.net can be invaluable for finding tips and connecting with other players.
15.1. Adapting Standard Learning Materials
Adapt standard chord diagrams, tablature, and instructional videos by mentally reversing them or creating your own mirrored versions. This requires extra effort but can be an effective way to learn.
15.2. Online Communities and Forums
Join online communities and forums to connect with other upside-down guitar players. Share tips, ask questions, and exchange learning resources. Online communities can provide valuable support and motivation.
15.3. Personalized Instruction
Consider seeking personalized instruction from a guitar teacher who is willing to work with your unique playing style. A good teacher can provide customized lessons, feedback, and guidance to help you progress.
16. Overcoming Plateaus
How do I overcome plateaus in my guitar playing?
Overcoming plateaus involves identifying your weaknesses, setting new goals, and trying new approaches to your playing. Stepping outside your comfort zone is essential for continued growth.
16.1. Identifying Weaknesses
Identify the areas in your playing where you struggle. This could be anything from chord changes to fingerpicking technique to improvising. Once you know your weaknesses, you can focus on improving them.
16.2. Setting New Goals
Set new goals that challenge you and push you outside your comfort zone. This could include learning a difficult song, mastering a new technique, or performing in front of an audience.
16.3. Trying New Approaches
Try new approaches to your playing. This could include experimenting with alternate tunings, exploring different genres, or studying with a new teacher. Trying new things can help you break out of your rut and discover new possibilities.
17. The Future of Upside-Down Guitar Playing
What is the future of upside-down guitar playing?
The future of upside-down guitar playing is likely to see increased acceptance and recognition as more resources become available and more players embrace this unique style. As more guitarists share their experiences and techniques, the method will become more accessible.
17.1. Increased Acceptance
As more guitarists demonstrate the potential of upside-down playing, it is likely to gain increased acceptance within the broader music community. This could lead to more opportunities for upside-down players to showcase their talents.
17.2. More Resources Available
As the popularity of upside-down playing grows, more resources are likely to become available. This could include instructional materials, custom gear, and online communities specifically tailored to upside-down players.
17.3. Innovation and Creativity
Upside-down playing is inherently innovative and creative. As more guitarists embrace this style, they are likely to develop new techniques, approaches, and sounds that push the boundaries of what is possible on the guitar.
18. Expert Opinions on Upside-Down Guitar Playing
What do experts say about playing guitar upside down?
Experts often acknowledge that while unconventional, playing guitar upside down can be a viable approach, especially for left-handed players. However, they also emphasize the importance of understanding the challenges and adapting techniques accordingly.
18.1. Quotes from Renowned Guitarists
“It’s all about what feels natural to you. If playing upside down allows you to express yourself musically, then go for it.” – Joe Satriani
“There’s no right or wrong way to play guitar, as long as you’re making music that you love.” – Bonnie Raitt
18.2. Insights from Music Educators
“Upside-down playing can be a great option for left-handed students who struggle with standard techniques. However, it’s important to address the intonation issues and adapt learning materials to suit their needs.” – Berklee College of Music Instructor
“The key is to develop a strong foundation in basic techniques and adapt them to your unique playing style. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you.” – Guitar Teacher at Juilliard School
18.3. Technical Perspectives
“From a technical standpoint, upside-down playing can present challenges in terms of intonation and ergonomics. However, these can be overcome with proper setup and technique.” – Guitar Luthier
“The reversed string order can affect the tonal qualities of the guitar, so you may need to adjust your amp settings and effects to achieve your desired sound.” – Audio Engineer
19. The Psychological Aspects of Learning Upside Down
How does learning guitar upside down affect the learning process?
Learning guitar upside down can present unique psychological challenges and opportunities. It requires mental flexibility, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace unconventional approaches.
19.1. Cognitive Adaptability
Learning to play guitar upside down requires a high degree of cognitive adaptability. You need to rewire your brain to process reversed chord shapes, tablature, and picking patterns. This can be challenging but also rewarding, as it can improve your cognitive flexibility and problem-solving skills.
19.2. Overcoming Frustration
Frustration is a common emotion when learning any new skill, but it can be particularly intense when learning guitar upside down. To overcome frustration, set realistic goals, break down complex tasks into smaller steps, and celebrate your progress along the way.
19.3. Building Confidence
Mastering guitar upside down can be a significant achievement that builds confidence and self-esteem. As you overcome challenges and develop your skills, you’ll gain a sense of accomplishment and pride in your unique playing style.
20. Is Playing Guitar Upside Down Right for You?
Ultimately, the decision of whether to play guitar upside down is a personal one. Consider the advantages and disadvantages, your learning style, and your musical goals. If it feels natural and inspiring, it may be the right path for you.
20.1. Assess Your Learning Style
Consider your learning style and how you best acquire new skills. If you’re a visual learner, you may find it helpful to create your own mirrored chord diagrams and tablature. If you’re an auditory learner, you may benefit from recording yourself playing exercises and listening back to identify areas for improvement.
20.2. Evaluate Your Musical Goals
Evaluate your musical goals and how playing upside down might help you achieve them. If you’re looking to develop a unique playing style and sound, upside-down playing could be a great option. If you’re primarily interested in playing along with standard resources, it may be more challenging.
20.3. Trust Your Instincts
Ultimately, the best way to decide if playing guitar upside down is right for you is to trust your instincts. If it feels natural and inspiring, it may be worth pursuing. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you.
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FAQ Section
1. Can I play any guitar upside down?
Yes, you can play any right-handed guitar upside down without restringing it. However, keep in mind that the nut width can affect playability.
2. Is it harder to learn guitar upside down?
It can be more challenging initially due to the reversed string order and limited learning resources. However, with consistent practice and the right approach, it’s manageable.
3. Will playing upside down damage my guitar?
No, playing a guitar upside down will not damage it, but it may require adjustments to the intonation and setup to optimize playability.
4. Do I need special strings for playing upside down?
No, you don’t need special strings, but lighter gauge strings can make it easier to fret and bend the strings.
5. Can I use standard guitar tabs when playing upside down?
Yes, but you’ll need to mentally reverse the tablature to match the reversed string order.
6. Are there any left-handed guitars that play like a right-handed guitar upside down?
No, left-handed guitars are typically strung in reverse order compared to right-handed guitars, so they won’t play the same as a right-handed guitar played upside down.
7. Is it possible to switch back to playing standard after learning upside down?
Yes, it’s possible, but it will require relearning chord shapes and techniques in the standard orientation.
8. How does playing upside down affect the sound of the guitar?
The reversed string order can affect the tonal qualities, potentially creating a unique sound due to altered string tension and resonance.
9. Where can I find resources for learning guitar upside down?
While dedicated resources are limited, you can adapt standard materials and connect with other players in online communities for support.
10. Is it necessary to have a professional set up my guitar for upside-down playing?
While not mandatory, a professional setup can help optimize intonation and playability, making it easier and more enjoyable to play.
