Paroxysm is Antoine Dufour's most celebrated composition and a cornerstone of the Montreal fingerstyle scene that emerged from Candyrat Records in the mid-2000s. Released alongside work by Andy McKee and Don Ross, it demonstrated that percussive fingerstyle could reach levels of technical sophistication previously unimagined.
The piece is built on Open C tuning (CGCGCE) and alternates between passages of explosive two-hand tapping and sections of lyrical, flowing melody. Dufour's two-hand tapping technique is distinctive — he uses a legato hammering approach that creates smooth, connected phrases rather than the staccato attack associated with electric guitar tapping.
The dynamic range of Paroxysm is one of its most striking qualities. Fast, dense tapping passages give way to spacious harmonic sequences, creating an emotional journey that justifies the piece's title. These dynamic shifts require complete control — rushing through the fast sections destroys the contrast that makes the quiet sections meaningful.
Learning Paroxysm is a multi-year commitment for most players. Begin by mastering two-hand tapping in Open C as an isolated technique. Study Dufour's right-hand positioning and the way his thumb continues managing bass notes even while other fingers tap higher strings.
Natural harmonics are woven throughout the piece. Precise fret-hand placement at harmonic nodes while the right hand continues tapping demands careful, slow practice before any attempt at speed.