What is a tremolo on guitar?

Tremolo is a musical effect created by rapidly alternating between two or more notes, creating a vibrating or wavering sound. On the guitar, this effect is typically achieved by quickly moving the picking hand back and forth across two adjacent strings. The speed and depth of the tremolo can be varied to create different effects.

Tremolo is commonly used in a variety of musical styles, including rock, blues, jazz, and country. In popular music, it is often used to create a sense of tension or excitement. In classical music, it is often used to add a shimmering quality to the sound.

There are a few different ways to create tremolo on the guitar. The most common method is to use the picking hand to alternate between two strings, while keeping the fretting hand in the same position. This can be done with either a single pick or a pick held between the thumb and index finger.

Another way to create tremolo is to use the tapping technique. This involves tapping on the fretboard with the picking hand, while the fretting hand mutes the strings. Tapping can be used to create a more rapid and intricate tremolo effect.

Finally, tremolo can also be created by using a tremolo bar. This is a lever attached to the guitar's bridge that can be moved to change the pitch of the strings. By moving the tremolo bar back and forth, you can create a vibrato effect that is similar to tremolo.