Vibrato

Vibrato is a slight fluctuation in pitch, that gives more depth and sustain to a note. This is done by using a technique similar to bending. You will rock your wrist and slightly bend the string up and down at a constant rate. Vibrato is notated in a couple of ways. First with an "v" after the note. Another common notation, is using a "~ " after or above the note that vibrato should be applied to.

                    ~~~~
G:-------------------------
D:--------or------or-------
A:-----5v----5~~~----5-----
E:-------------------------

 

Natural Harmonics

Natural harmonics are notes that produce a bell like sound when you touch a string over a particular fret bar. The notation that is most commonly used is the fret that you will touch, surrounded by the less than and greater than symbols "<12>".

G:----<12>---
D:-----------
A:-----------
E:-----------

 

Other Harmonics

There is not really a standardized notation for other types of harmonics. These include artificial harmonics, touch harmonics, tap harmonics, and pinch harmonics. The individual transcriber will usually write an explanation of a technique that is not easily notated.

 

Palm Mutes

Palm mutes are most often done on the bass when a pick is used. A palm mute is where you take the side of your right hand (4th finger side) and lightly touch the string at the edge of the bridge. This will give the notes that you are playing a muffled sound. This is most often notated with the letters "P.M." written under the notes.

 
G:------------------------
D:------------------------
A:------------------------
E:----0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-----

    P.M.-----------|