To make cool guitar sounds using tapping and sweep picking, it's important to know what each technique is and how they work well together.

Tapping is when you use your picking hand's fingers to hit notes on the guitar's fretboard. This helps you quickly switch between notes and reach far apart notes.

Sweep picking is a technique where you move the pick smoothly across multiple strings in one motion. This allows you to play a series of notes called arpeggios really fast.

Key Techniques

1. Tapping Technique:

   • You usually use your index or middle finger to tap.
   • Tapping lets you jump up and down the fretboard quickly, which is great for creating flowing sounds.
   • Example: A common tapping pattern could be $5-7-9$ on one string, tapping notes on the strings next to it for a smooth sound.

2. Sweep Picking Technique:

   • This technique involves a smooth motion where the pick goes across several strings all at once.
   • It’s great for playing arpeggios quickly and gives a fast, pretty sound.
   • Example: You could play a simple 3-string arpeggio like E-G#-B on the first three strings all in one downward motion.

Combining Techniques

Mixing tapping and sweep picking lets you create interesting and exciting phrases. Here’s how you can do it:

• Start with a Sweep: Begin with a sweep picking arpeggio to set the stage.

  • For example, sweep through a major arpeggio E-G#-B and then tap on the 12th fret with your index finger for a higher note. This combines a pretty tune with a quick rhythm.

• Tapping After Sweeps: After you finish a sweep picking run, tap a note that fits well with the last note you played. This adds excitement and keeps things fresh.

  • For example, play a descending arpeggio and then tap a higher note to smoothly move to the next part of your music.

• Intervals and Leaps: Use tapping to reach wider notes that sweep picking can’t reach easily. For example, tap one note while sweeping another string.

  • You could tap an $E$ on the 15th fret of the high E string while sweeping down an arpeggio on the lower strings.

Practical Applications

1. Scale Integration: Combine scales with your tapping and sweep picking. Use $C$ major or $A$ minor scales to create tapping patterns.

2. Rhythmic Variation: Change up the rhythm of your tapping to make it sound interesting. Mixing long notes with quick taps can create a great effect.

3. Use of Harmonics: Try adding natural harmonics while tapping. This can make beautiful sounds that add richness to your music.

Conclusion

By blending tapping and sweep picking, guitar players can create lots of dynamic, exciting sounds. Studies show that guitarists who master these techniques can play faster—up to 30% quicker for certain phrases. This not only improves their skill but also makes their music more expressive. These advanced techniques help you improvise and develop your unique style, making your guitar solos more engaging and special.