Harmonics is a technique where you touch a string lightly at a specific point to sound an overtone different from the fundamental. On guitar, bass, and orchestral strings it produces clear, high, bell-like notes.
The basic idea
The key is to touch a node point lightly rather than pressing the string down. There are natural harmonics as well as artificial harmonics played while fretting a note.
Using them in performance and programming
Start around the 12th fret of a guitar or bass, touching lightly as you pick. When programming, choose a harmonics articulation in your instrument and check how the tone differs from normal notes.
Difference from related terms
Harmonics are overtones produced as a playing technique, while timbre refers to the overall character of a sound. Harmonics are one concrete way of changing timbre.
Even used sparingly, they can add a striking accent or a sense of air to a track.
