Mastering SRV's Hardest Blues Riff: A Detailed Guitar Lesson
By Paul Davids
Mastering Blues Guitar Techniques: String Bending, Vibrato, and Legato
String Bending
String bending is a fundamental blues guitar technique that involves pushing or pulling a string to alter its pitch. Precision and control are key. Practice bending to specific target notes, focusing on a smooth, even bend without excessive vibrato initially. Gradually increase the intensity and speed of your bends as your control improves. Experiment with different bending techniques, such as full bends, half bends, and pre-bends.
Vibrato
Vibrato adds expression and warmth to your notes. It involves rapidly oscillating the pitch of a note. Start by practicing a slow, even vibrato using your fretting hand. Experiment with different vibrato techniques, such as finger vibrato, wrist vibrato, and arm vibrato. Focus on developing a consistent and controlled vibrato that enhances the emotional impact of your playing.
Legato
Legato playing involves connecting notes smoothly without picking each note individually. This is often achieved using hammer-ons and pull-offs. Practice hammer-ons and pull-offs cleanly and accurately. Focus on developing speed and precision. Experiment with different legato techniques, such as slides and scoops, to add variety and expression to your playing.
Putting it Together
Once you've mastered the individual techniques, practice combining them. Blues guitar often involves intricate interplay between string bending, vibrato, and legato. Start by practicing simple blues riffs and gradually increase the complexity. Focus on developing your phrasing and timing. Listen to your favorite blues guitarists and try to emulate their style and techniques.
Technique
string bending, vibrato, legato
Musical Theory
blues scale
Style
blues
Duration
13:29 min
Views
2754092
