Improve Your String Bends

Hi there! My name is Jonathan from Sheffield Guitar Studio, and I’m here to help you become the guitar player you aspire to be. Today’s lesson is all about string bends—an essential tool for adding expression and character to your playing. Whether you’re new to string bending or looking to refine your technique, this guide will help you master bends and integrate them into your regular practice.

Why String Bends Are Important

String bends are one of the most expressive techniques available to guitarists. They introduce microtonality—the subtle pitches between fretted notes—and form the foundation for vibrato, another expressive tool. Let’s dive into how to play and practice bends effectively.

Setting Up Your Fretting Hand

To execute a bend, your fretting hand needs to be properly positioned:

1. Grip the Neck: Place your thumb and first finger on either side of the neck, creating a pivot point just below your knuckle. This grip provides the leverage needed for bending.

2. Apply Pressure Correctly: Use multiple fingers to press the string. For example, if bending the G string at the 7th fret, use your middle and ring fingers to assist your index finger. This distributes the force and ensures control.

3. Use a Rotational Motion: Bend the string by rotating your wrist, similar to turning a doorknob. This motion provides the strength and precision for clean bends without relying solely on finger strength.

Practicing Intonation

Accurate bends are all about hitting the target pitch:

- Start by playing the target note (e.g., the 9th fret on the G string) to hear the desired pitch.

- Bend the 7th fret note up to match the pitch of the 9th fret.

- Use a backing track or metronome to practice in context and ensure your bends stay in tune.

Managing Excess Noise

String bends can create unwanted string noise if not properly muted. To maintain clarity:

- Use your first finger to mute thinner strings.

- Use your thumb or picking hand to mute thicker strings.

This ensures that only the bent note rings out and eliminates any accidental sounds.

Applying Bends in Music

The best way to internalize bending techniques is to incorporate them into licks and solos. Learn phrases that include bends and experiment with creating your own. For example:

- Classic Bend: Bend a note and release it slowly.

- Pre-Bend: Bend the string before picking, then release it.

- Bend-and-Hold Vibrato: Add vibrato to a bent note for extra expression.

String Gauge and Bending

Keep in mind that string gauge affects the difficulty of bending:

- Lighter Gauge: Easier to bend but offers less resistance.

- Heavier Gauge: Harder to bend but provides a fuller tone.

Experiment to find the string gauge that suits your style and preferences.

Final Tips

1. Start Slow: Focus on accuracy before speed. A poorly intonated bend can ruin an otherwise great solo.

2. Stay Relaxed: Avoid excessive tension in your hand or wrist.

3. Practice Consistently: Regular practice will build strength and muscle memory.

Final Thoughts

String bends add a unique, vocal-like quality to your playing and open up endless possibilities for expression. Take the time to practice them thoroughly and experiment with different techniques. For additional resources and video lessons, visit my website at SheffieldGuitarStudio.com.

If you enjoyed this lesson, share it with your fellow guitarists or leave a comment with feedback or questions. Thanks for joining me today, and happy playing!

Bend Examples.pdf

Download PDF • 90KB