Learn AND Apply Two Hand Tapping: Technique + Theory

This lesson is a detailed guide to get you started on learning the two-handed tapping technique for guitar. There are two important skills that must be learned first: left hand legato, and the right hand tap. After that, we will break down the most common tapping pattern (heard in Van Halen's "Eruption," Metallica's "One," and countless other tracks) into three simple steps.

After learning how to sync up our practice with a metronome, we will explore different patterns of varying difficulty, including 4-note sixteenth note patterns, 5-note quintuplet patterns, and 6-note sextuplet patterns.

A small amount of music theory will also be taught relating to minor and major arpeggios, which are the most common way to perform tapping sequences. However, you are encouraged to experiment with new shapes, patterns, strings, and more!

What You'll Learn

The Basics

Before combining both hands, you need to master two separate techniques: left hand legato (hammer-ons and pull-offs) and the right hand tap. The video walks through each in detail.

Three Steps to Tapping

The classic tapping pattern is broken down into three manageable steps. This is the foundation for patterns heard in iconic solos throughout rock and metal history.

Different Rhythmic Patterns

• Triplets - The classic 3-note pattern
• Sixteenth notes - 4-note patterns
• Quintuplets - 5-note patterns
• Sextuplets - 6-note patterns

Arpeggio Theory

Understanding minor and major arpeggio shapes is essential for creating musical tapping sequences. The theory section covers how to apply these shapes across the fretboard.

Practice Tips

Try using the skills taught in this lesson to create a tapped arpeggio sequence over a chord progression like Em - G - A - C. Match each arpeggio shape to its corresponding chord as it changes.