The Pull-off

Lesson 3/44 | Study Time: 5 Min
The Pull-off

The Pull-off

The pull-off is like a reverse hammer-on, i.e., the first note is picked and the second note sound is created by the finger pulling off the string. In the following example the D note is played by the middle (m) finger and the C note sound is created by the third finger pulling off the string. The pull-off is indicated by the letter P and a curved line.

Starting position – D note

After Pull-off – C note

In the following examples the clawhammer pattern is used with hammer-ons and pull-offs. Practice each chord part separately and when confident play the entire progression.

Fingerpicking Pattern 7a

The following progression is based around a D major chord.

  • D/C indicates a D chord with a C bass note (played by the second finger of the left hand).
  • D/B indicates a D chord with a B bass note (played by the first finger of the left hand).
  • The p finger also alternates with a bass note on the 3rd string.

This progression is in the key of D major as indicated by the key signature which contains two sharps.

Fingerpicking Pattern 7a

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