Bend it like a pro!

Course: Lead Guitar Bootcamp with Sam Bell

In this video

Sam is talks string bending! The great selling point of the guitar.

Lesson aims -

  • Learn to bend effectively, reaching notes with good timing and intonation

  • Understand the difference between bending and vibrato

Exercise - Perform a string bend

  • Pick the note at the 15th fret of the B string

  • Perform a whole step bend (up two frets)

  • Try to spread the timing of the bend evenly over 4 beats

  • Introduce vibrato on the return back to the first note (like a mini bend)

Bending accurately to a certain note with deliberate timing is essential for good sounding and musical solos.

Similar to bending, vibrato manipulates the string but with less intent on landing on specific notes. As shown in the video, using vibrato in the right place, for an intended reason or used sparingly is when it is most effective.

Next Up: Try something unique in your lead playing

Well done! Let's jump into the next lesson of the course.