Playing the guitar is an incredibly versatile and dynamic skill, with countless techniques and styles to explore. One such technique that may seem unorthodox but is deeply fascinating and rewarding to learn is playing the guitar upside down. Whether you’re left-handed trying to adapt to a right-handed guitar or simply looking to challenge your musical approach, learning how to play upside down on the guitar can open new creative doors.
This guide will walk you through what it means to play the guitar upside down, how it affects your playing technique, and how you can practice and master this unusual but fun method. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to approach upside-down guitar playing, whether for personal experimentation or as a unique performance technique.
Understanding the Upside-Down Guitar Technique
Before delving into the practical aspects of playing the guitar upside down, it’s essential to understand what this term refers to. In the most common sense, playing the guitar upside down means inverting the orientation of the instrument. In other words, the guitar is flipped so that the neck faces downward and the body faces upward. In this orientation, you still play the guitar the same way, but your string order is reversed.
This technique is primarily used by individuals who are left-handed but don’t have access to a left-handed guitar or prefer not to use one. It’s worth noting that, while flipping the guitar upside down can make the strings appear in reverse order, it’s also a means of creating unique sounds and techniques, even for right-handed players looking for a fresh approach.
The upside-down technique, while challenging, offers some intriguing advantages. It forces players to develop new ways of thinking about chord shapes, scales, and fingerings, providing new challenges for technical proficiency and musical creativity.
Why Play Upside Down on Guitar?
There are several reasons why guitarists might choose to explore the upside-down technique:
Left-Handed Guitarists: Left-handed players may find playing on a right-handed guitar challenging, as they typically prefer the opposite orientation. While some left-handed players may buy a left-handed guitar, others choose to learn by flipping the guitar upside down.
Creativity and Sound Exploration: Playing upside down can give a guitarist a fresh perspective on how they approach music. The reversed string order and finger placements encourage creativity, leading to new sounds, unique chord voicings, and interesting riffs.
Musical Challenge: As with any unconventional guitar technique, playing upside down is a challenge. It forces players to adapt and develop muscle memory and finger dexterity in a different manner. Many guitarists enjoy the challenge and the rewards it brings in terms of developing their technical skill.
Artist and Iconic Examples: Famous guitarists like Jimi Hendrix and Albert King have used the upside-down guitar method in their performances. Jimi Hendrix, in particular, was known for playing a right-handed guitar flipped upside down. These artists have influenced generations of guitarists who aspire to experiment with the same technique.
Preparing to Play the Guitar Upside Down
To start playing the guitar upside down, you’ll need to consider a few important factors. Here are some basic steps and tips to help you prepare for this unique challenge.
1. Choose the Right Guitar
While it’s not necessary to use a left-handed guitar to play upside down, choosing the right instrument will make the process easier. If you’re left-handed, you might find it easier to play on a guitar that is naturally designed for left-handed players. However, if you’re playing a right-handed guitar upside down, you may need to adjust your technique slightly due to the string orientation.
Left-Handed Guitarists: If you already own a left-handed guitar, you can play it in a conventional way. However, flipping it upside down will reverse the string orientation, which could require you to adapt your playing method.
Right-Handed Guitarists: If you are a right-handed player learning to play upside down, you will need to reverse the way you hold the guitar. This will change the positioning of your fretting hand and picking hand, which can affect the way you approach different techniques.
2. Adjust Your Guitar Setup (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother transition into the upside-down guitar technique, consider adjusting your guitar setup. Here are a few options that might make playing upside down more comfortable:
String Reordering: Some players choose to switch the strings on their guitar to make it more natural when flipped upside down. For instance, the high E string (thinnest) would be placed on the bottom, and the low E (thickest) on top. While not necessary, it can help with the ergonomics of playing.
Pickup Adjustments: If your guitar has adjustable pickups, you may want to adjust them for optimal sound when played upside down. This will ensure that the tone is clear and consistent when flipped.
3. Get Comfortable with the New Orientation
Flipping your guitar upside down will feel strange at first, especially when it comes to basic techniques such as strumming, fretting, and picking. Take time to get used to this new orientation:
Fretting Hand: If you are a right-handed guitarist, your dominant hand will now be responsible for pressing down the strings. This might feel awkward, but with practice, it will start to feel more natural.
Picking Hand: Your non-dominant hand, which is now responsible for strumming and picking, will need to adjust its technique as well. It’s crucial to practice accurate strumming motions and pick-hand movements.
4. Familiarize Yourself with Upside-Down Chord Shapes
Since the strings are reversed when you play the guitar upside down, you’ll need to rethink your chord shapes. Standard chord fingerings won’t work as they normally do, so you’ll need to create new shapes.
For example:
Major Chords: Playing a major chord upside down means that you’ll need to find the equivalent shape using your reversed string order.
Minor Chords: Similarly, minor chords will require new finger positions, as the standard finger placements will no longer align properly.
In this section, take the time to play through common chords (both major and minor) in their upside-down forms. Learning these shapes will help you become more comfortable with your new way of playing.
Techniques for Playing Upside Down on Guitar
Now that you’ve prepared and adjusted your guitar, it’s time to explore how to play upside down. There are several key techniques you’ll need to focus on to ensure you’re playing in this unconventional way effectively.
1. Strumming and Picking
Strumming and picking are foundational techniques for guitar playing, and they’re affected by playing upside down. Your non-dominant hand will now become the strumming hand, which can initially feel strange. Start by practicing simple strumming patterns with your new hand orientation. The key is to develop accuracy and fluidity, just as you would with conventional playing.
Alternate Picking: Since your picking hand will be inverted, it’s important to practice alternate picking (down-up strokes) and use the correct angle for striking the strings.
Fingerstyle Playing: If you prefer fingerpicking, practice plucking the strings with your thumb and fingers in their new orientation.
2. Fretting and Chording
When playing upside down, you’ll notice that the positions of your fingers on the fretboard will feel awkward at first. The muscle memory you’ve developed from playing guitar conventionally needs to be reset.
Begin with Open Chords: Start by learning open-position chords and getting comfortable with their new fingering. Practice switching between chords like G, C, D, and E to help develop the right hand positioning.
Practice Barre Chords: Once you’re comfortable with open chords, move on to barre chords. Since barre chords require you to press multiple strings at once, practicing them will strengthen your fretting hand and help you improve your control.
3. Finger Dexterity and Strengthening
As you’re switching from the standard orientation to upside down, your fingers need to adapt to their new positions. This will require additional strength and dexterity. The best way to develop this is through consistent practice.
Strength Exercises: Start by doing simple finger exercises such as scales, chromatic runs, or picking patterns. These exercises will build strength in both hands.
Stretching: Upside-down guitar playing can be a stretch for your fingers and wrists. Be sure to stretch before and after practice to avoid strain or injury.
4. Incorporating Unique Sound Techniques
Once you’ve mastered the basics of upside-down guitar playing, the fun part begins: experimenting with new sounds. Playing upside down naturally alters the resonance and tone of the guitar, allowing for creative exploration.
Unusual Tunings: Upside-down guitar players often explore alternate tunings. Because the string order is reversed, experimenting with different tunings can give your guitar a unique sound. Try open tunings, drop D, or even self-created tunings for a new vibe.
Unique Chord Voicings: By adjusting your finger placement and trying different fingerings, you can come up with chord voicings that sound unfamiliar but inspiring.
Famous Guitarists Who Played Upside Down
Many famous guitarists have used this technique, adding a layer of creativity and distinction to their playing. Jimi Hendrix, for instance, was famously left-handed but often played a right-handed guitar upside down. His unique approach influenced generations of musicians and guitarists who sought to replicate his sound.
Other notable guitarists who have played upside down include Albert King and Otis Rush. These blues guitar legends used the technique to develop their own voice and style, influencing the sound of modern blues and rock music.
Challenges and Solutions
Playing upside down on guitar can come with challenges, including:
Ergonomics: The positioning of the guitar can feel uncomfortable initially. However, with proper technique and posture, you can reduce strain.
Muscle Memory: Switching to an upside-down guitar will disrupt your muscle memory, which may slow your progress at first. However, with consistent practice, your fingers will adapt.
String Tension: Upside-down playing can alter the way strings respond to pressure. Ensure that you maintain proper string tension and tuning for optimal sound quality.
Conclusion
Learning how to play the guitar upside down may seem like a daunting task, but it’s one that offers creative freedom and a fresh approach to guitar playing. Whether you’re a left-handed player looking to adapt to a right-handed guitar or a guitarist looking to challenge your musical boundaries, playing upside down on guitar can lead to a deeper understanding of music and technique.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to master this unique technique and unlock new ways of creating music. So, grab your guitar, flip it upside down, and start exploring the vast world of possibilities it has to offer.
Related Topics
- How to Write Guitar Riffs
- How to Play Electric Guitar with Headphones
- What Are the Requirements for Soul Guitar?
