TEXTURAL MULTIPHONICS

Technical Practice
There are three basic techniques in which it is possible to produce multiphonic type effects by combining open string or stopped pitch sounds with natural  or artificial harmonics.
Such effects rely heavily on a consistent bow speed and pressure and the bassist will need to experiment to find the right combinations. The three basic techniques are:

1. A tremolo between an open string and a harmonic results in a sound is a combination of the harmonic, open string and white noise. (Alisei  by Stefano Scodanibbio makes extensive use of this technique).
   
   
2. A tremolo between two harmonics on the same string.
   
   
3. The activation of a harmonic node which is then released by the left hand finger and sustained by careful maintenance of bow pressure and placement in the sul ponticello region. This allows for the harmonic to sustain whilst the open string sound (and harmonic series) gradually emereges. An example of this can be found in Barry Guy's Statements II.
   
   
4. A very similar technique to the first example but employing a tremolo between a stopped pitch and an artificial harmonic above it.

Notes
In each case, a greater ponticello placement will bring out more of the harmonic and less open string whilst a more natural or tasto position balances the parameters or intensifies the white noise respectively.

Dynamic Range: pp-ff
Difficulty: 2-4

Barry Guy Statements II

Related Techniques

Repertoire

Back