Dream Theater's "Wither"
Dream Theater's "Wither" is a masterclass in melodic rock guitar playing, offering a balance of technical prowess and emotional expressiveness. Our guitar lesson breaks the song down into digestible segments, highlighting the techniques used by John Petrucci, the band’s virtuosic guitarist. By mastering the skills in "Wither," you’ll develop your ability to blend technical proficiency with musicality, creating a more polished and dynamic guitar style. Andy James breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.
About John Petrucci and His Influence
John Petrucci, a founding member of Dream Theater, is celebrated as one of the most accomplished guitarists in progressive metal. His playing style is defined by precision, speed, and an incredible sense of melody. Known for his use of advanced techniques like alternate picking and two-handed tapping, Petrucci is a pioneer in creating complex, yet highly musical compositions. Learning "Wither" gives you a direct insight into the playing style of a guitar legend, helping you refine your technical skills and interpretive abilities.
Techniques Covered in the Lesson
Vibrato
Petrucci’s expressive vibrato is a hallmark of his playing in "Wither." This technique adds emotional depth to sustained notes, making them sing. Mastering vibrato will help you convey a range of feelings in your playing, making your solos more engaging and expressive.
Alternate Picking
The intricate picking patterns in "Wither" showcase alternate picking. This technique allows for fast, precise note execution, vital for playing Petrucci’s intricate passages. By mastering alternate picking, you’ll gain control over speed and clarity in your playing.
Learn more about alternate picking.
Legato
The smooth legato runs in "Wither" create fluid, cascading lines that are a signature of Petrucci’s style. This technique minimises picking, enabling seamless transitions between notes. Practicing legato enhances your ability to play with speed while maintaining a connected, melodic sound.
Tapped Harmonics
One of the standout techniques in "Wither" is tapped harmonics, where Petrucci adds shimmering overtones to his melodies. This technique creates a distinct, bell-like sound, adding texture and intrigue to your solos.
Learn more about tapped harmonics.
String Bending and Bluesy Bends
Petrucci’s use of string bending, including bluesy bends, in "Wither" injects emotion into the lead lines. String bending allows you to alter the pitch of notes subtly or dramatically, adding expressiveness and dynamics to your solos.
Learn more about string bending.
Learn more about bluesy bends.
Arpeggios
The arpeggiated chord progressions in "Wither" highlight Petrucci’s ability to create complexity through simplicity. Playing arpeggios strengthens your understanding of harmony and allows you to navigate the fretboard more effectively.
Chord Progressions
The song's beautiful chord progressions provide a foundation for its emotive quality. Studying these progressions enhances your rhythm playing and your ability to craft compelling backing tracks for your solos.
Learn more about chord progressions.
Why Learn "Wither"?
- Expressive Playing: The song is a masterclass in combining melody and emotion, teaching you how to convey feeling through your guitar.
- Technical Mastery: By tackling Petrucci’s techniques, you’ll significantly improve your precision, speed, and control.
- Musical Growth: The lessons in "Wither" go beyond technique, offering insights into composition and dynamics that will elevate your overall musicianship.
Techniques List
Dive into our "Wither" lesson today and experience the joy of mastering one of Dream Theater’s most emotionally impactful songs. Whether you’re honing your technique or developing your musical voice, this lesson offers invaluable skills for guitarists of all levels.
About The Tutor
Tutor Profile
Andy James
Andy James needs little introduction as one of the most popular LickLibrary tutors, respected the world over for his unbelievable technical skills and teaching material. "As a player Andy has released a string of solo albums, the last being 2012's ""Andy James"" on Transcend Music which was met with huge...