Getting Started with Hammer-Ons, Pull-Offs, and Bends

Lesson #520 • Oct 11, 2023

Lesson Discussion

Lesson Description

I got a recent question from Song Notes member Alan, who asked for general tips when it comes to learning tricky “articulation” bits such as hammer-ons, pull-offs, bends, and so forth. I recorded this casual Q&A reply, where I talk through each of these techniques and give some general advice for each. To be clear, these are all techniques that can take a while to get comfortable with. Sometimes they come easier, while in other circumstances they’re quite difficult. Fear not, as I’ll walk you through how to think about & practice them, big-picture.

0:00 Lesson Summary
2:32 Hammer-Ons
8:38 Pull-Offs
18:45 Bends

The Question that Inspired This Video

Special thanks to Alan for sending this in via the Song Notes community forum.

Hi David, Back again. Do You have any place where you specifically go into articulation. I would love some tips on more effective ways to hammer-on, pull-off, bend, and so forth. It seems particularly challenging with an acoustic guitar. Thanks as always!

Other Lessons I Reference

Here’s the playlist of suggested lessons that I reference at the beginning of my video. Click any lesson below to view my video tutorial, as well as all other lesson resources.

Hammer-On Practice with G and Cadd9 (feat. "Southside of Heaven")

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Getting Started with Hammer-Ons, Pull-Offs, and Bends

Lesson Discussion

Lesson Description

The Question that Inspired This Video

Other Lessons I Reference

Unlock My Secret Stash!

Browse Related Lessons

Enjoy My Lessons? Show Your Support!

Looking for More Song Lessons?

Featured Courses

Strumming & Rhythm

Fingerstyle & Travis Picking

Blues Starter Kit

Reading Music for Guitarists

Learning Lead Guitar

Beginner Chord Guide

Practical Music Theory

Using a Capo

Walk Ups & Walk Downs

CAGED Essentials

Fun & Helpful Tools I've Made

Fret Monster

Capo Captain

Key Master

Blank Tabs

Subscribe to my YouTube channel

Recent Lessons