Guitar Dictionary Category
Notation & Reading
What Is a Slur in Guitar Notation?
A slur is a curved line connecting notes of different pitches. It indicates that the notes should be played smoothly and with reduced re-articulation. In guitar music, a short slur between two notes on the same string commonly directs the player to use a hammer-on or pull-off.
A longer curved line can indicate legato phrasing rather than one specific left-hand movement. The surrounding fingering, string numbers and musical context determine the execution.
Ascending and Descending Slurs
When the second note is higher on the same string, the slur is normally played as a hammer-on. Pick the first note, then place the next finger firmly enough to sound the higher pitch.
When the second note is lower, prepare both fingers, pick the upper note and use a controlled pull-off to sound the lower note. The second note must arrive at its written rhythmic position rather than immediately after the attack.
Slur vs Tie
A slur connects different pitches and describes articulation. A tie connects two notes of the same pitch and combines their durations. They look similar, but the pitch relationship identifies the symbol.
Slur vs Phrase Mark
A phrase mark is also curved and may extend over many notes. It groups a musical sentence and does not necessarily mean that every note is produced with hammer-ons and pull-offs. Classical guitar editions sometimes use several nested curves for local slurs and larger phrasing.
More Than Two Notes
A slur can cover a group of notes. Guitarists may pick the first note and use several hammer-ons and pull-offs under the line, or combine left-hand legato with a string change. When the phrase crosses strings, another picking-hand attack may be necessary even though the musical result remains legato.
Slur Practice Exercise
Play four even eighth notes on one string: 5h7, then 7p5. Pick only the first note of each pair. Count the subdivision and match the fretting-hand notes to the pick attacks in volume and timing.
Count: 1 & 2 &
Action: pick 5, hammer 7, pick 7, pull 5.
The hammer-on and pull-off must not arrive early merely because the physical movement is quick.
Why Slurs Matter
Slurs connect notes into a single gesture and reduce the guitar’s repeated pick or finger attack. They support vocal phrasing, ornaments, rapid legato passages and expressive classical interpretation.
Kalymi Tip
My hammer-on and pull-off tips both emphasize rhythm. A slur does not give the fretting hand permission to rush the second note.
Practise the written rhythm with both notes picked first. Then replace the second attack with the hammer-on or pull-off while keeping the spacing identical.
For longer slurs, locate the destination and prepare the complete hand position before beginning. If the phrase crosses strings, choose the necessary right-hand attacks while preserving the smooth musical line.
Related Terms
Learn More
- How to Play Classical Guitar: Lesson One
- How to Play Classical Guitar: Lesson Two
- Open G Tuning Guitar Flatpicking Lesson
- Guitar Learning Path
- Slurs in Music Notation
- Kalymi Music Library
Reviewed by
Brent C. Robitaille,
music educator and founder of
Kalymi Music.