Eddie Van Halen 4-Note Per String Tapping Exercise: Master the Jump Solo Technique

Mastering Eddie Van Halen's 4-Note Per String Tapping Technique

Eddie Van Halen's innovative tapping technique revolutionized guitar playing, especially in iconic solos like "Jump" and "Hot for Teacher." In this blog post, we will delve into his 4-note per string tapping exercise, breaking it down into manageable steps for beginners.

Understanding the 4-Note Per String Tapping Technique

In Eddie Van Halen's style of tapping, you will play four notes per string. This involves using three fingers from your fretting hand and one finger from your picking hand to tap, as shown in the image below:

Steps to Perform the Exercise

1. Positioning:

   • Start by placing your fretting hand in the A minor pentatonic scale position.
   • Add the note on the seventh fret of each string to form the minor blues shape.

2. Tapping:

   • Use the first or second finger of your picking hand to tap the 12th fret.
   • Pull off to the 8th fret with your fretting hand's pinky.
   • Pull off from the 8th fret to the 7th fret using the third finger.
   • Finally, pull off from the 7th fret to the 5th fret with the second finger.

3. Muting:

   • Mute the strings you are not playing with your fretting hand.
   • Use the first finger of your fretting hand to mute the top strings while descending.

Practice Tips

• Slow and Steady: Start slowly to ensure each note rings out clearly. Gradually build up speed to match Eddie's lightning-fast flurries.
• Looping: Loop the pattern shown in the image to reinforce muscle memory and increase speed.
• Interactive Practice: Utilize the Gibson app’s interactive lessons to practice this technique. The app’s loop functionality and custom reduced-speed settings allow you to practice at your own pace.

Applying the Technique in Your Playing

Mastering this technique will enhance your solos, adding a burst of energy and complexity. It’s particularly effective in rock and metal styles, where speed and precision are key. Remember, the Gibson app’s built-in amplifier simulator can help you experiment with different tones to match Eddie Van Halen’s signature sound.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Inconsistent Muting: Ensure you are muting unplayed strings to avoid unwanted noise.
• Rushing: Avoid the temptation to rush through the exercise. Focus on clarity and accuracy before increasing speed.

Unlock More with Our App

Ready to elevate your guitar skills? Download the Gibson app today to access interactive lessons, live feedback, and a supportive community of guitar enthusiasts. Try it for free and start your journey to mastering Eddie Van Halen's legendary techniques.