Bending & Vibrato

This masterclass covers guitar bending and vibrato techniques. The instructor starts by discussing proper finger positioning for bending notes, using three fingers for strength and pressing down and in towards the fretboard. He demonstrates bending up to target notes and resolving bends.

Additional bending techniques covered include pre-bends, bending behind the target note like Albert King, and bending from notes a half step below. The instructor emphasizes finding the pitch accurately. Vibrato techniques like finger vibrato and whole-arm vibrato are demonstrated.

Solos are discussed, emphasizing playing melodically on a single string or jumping between adjacent notes. The instructor solos to demonstrate the techniques. Effects of distortion and compression on sustain are addressed. Bending near the nut is discussed, with the challenges it presents.

Throughout the class, participants ask questions and share examples from songs that utilize these techniques. The instructor encourages experimenting with bending and not being afraid to play wrong notes as part of the learning process. A variety of skill levels are addressed to provide value for both beginners and more advanced students.

Transcript Summary

Bending Technique (0:00-5:00)

  • Use 3 fingers for strength when bending, pressing down and in
  • Bend up to target notes and resolve bends
  • Find pitch accurately by bending to and from target note
  • Practice bending scales to develop pitch
  • Bend with ring finger for strength, supported by 1st and 2nd fingers

Additional Bending Techniques (5:00-10:00)

  • Pre-bends and ghost bends (bending and releasing)
  • Bend behind the target note like Albert King
  • Bend from notes a half step below
  • Minor third and whole step bends
  • Resolve bends for more vocal quality

Vibrato and Phrasing (10:00-15:00)

  • Finger and whole-arm vibrato techniques
  • Play melodically on a single string
  • Jump between adjacent notes
  • Incorporate vibrato into bends
  • Phrase notes like a vocalist

Effects and Technique Discussion (15:00-end)

  • Effect of distortion and compression on sustain
  • Challenges of bending near the nut
  • Questions from participants about techniques
  • Encouragement to experiment without fear of mistakes