A sharp (#) is a sign placed in front of a natural
note which raises the pitch a half step (1 fret). There is a
half step between E-F and B-C naturally, so that
E# sounds the same as F, and B# sounds the same as C. For now
think of these notes by there natural names only (F and C).
A sharp remains in effect for the entire measure, or until it
is canceled by a natural sign ().
Once you cross into the next measure the sharp is canceled out.
Sharps, flats and natural signs that temporarily change the pitch
of a note are known as accidentals.
* Note that a courtesy
accidental in parenthesis is often used in the next measure
after a sharp of the same letter name is used. This is not necessary
but is often done to avoid confusion.
In the following exercise play the last 2 notes
(G# and A) with you 4th finger. For all other notes use 1 finger
per fret (1st finger=1st fret, 2nd finger=2nd fret etc...) Be
sure to name the notes to yourself as you play.
).
Once you cross into the next measure the sharp is canceled out.
